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COLLECTIONS 


NEW- YORK  HISTORICAL  SOCIETY. 


NEW-YORK  HISTORICAL  SOCIETY. 

PUBLICATION  FUND. 


COLLECTIONS 


NEW-YORK  IIISTOPJCAL  SOCIETY 


FOR    THE    YEAR 


1868. 


PUBLICATIOX   FUND   SERIES. 


NEW    YORK: 
PRINTED     FOR    THE     SOCIETY. 

MDCCCLXVIII. 


THE    TROW    4   SMITH 

BOOK    MANCTFACTURING    COMPANY 

46,  48,  50  Greene  street. 


1128415 

Officers  of  the  Society,  1868 


PRESIDENT, 

HAMILTON     FISH,     LL.D. 

FIRST   VICE-PRESIDENT, 

THOMAS     DE     WITT.     D.D. 

SECOND   VICE-PRESIDENT, 

GULIAN     C.     VERPLANCK,     LL.D. 

'  FOREIGN   CORRESPONDING   SECRETARY, 

JOHN     ROMEYN     BRODHEAD,     LL.D. 

DOMESTIC   CORRESPONDING   SECRETARY, 

WILLIAM     J.     HOPPIN. 

RECORDING   SECRETARY, 

ANDREW     WARNER. 

TREASURER, 

BENJAMIN     H.     FIELD. 

LIBRARIAN, 

GEORGE    HENRY     MOORE. 


EXECUTIVE   COMMITTEE. 


FIRST   CLASS — FOR   ONE   YEAR. 

SAMUEL   OSGOOD,  WILLIAM    CHAUNCEY, 

CHARLES    P.    KIRKLAND. 

SECOND   CLASS — FOR   TWO   YEARS. 

GEORGE  FOLSOM,  WILLIAM   T.    BLODGETT, 

JOHN   ADRIANCE. 

THIRD   CLASS — FOR   THREE   YEARS. 

AUGUSTUS    SCHELL,  ERASTUS   C.    BENEDICT, 

BENJAMIN   W.   BONNEY. 

FOURTH  CLASS — FOR  FOUR  YEARS. 

JOHN    ROMEYN   BRODHEAD,  EVERT  A.    DUYCKINCK, 

JAMES   WILLIAM    BEEKMAN. 

AUGUSTUS    SCHELL,    Chairman. 
GEORGE    H.    MOORE,    Secretary. 

[The  President,   Recording  Secretary,  Treasurer,  and  Librarian  are 
members,  ex  officio.,  of  the  Executive  Committee.] 

COMMITTEE     ON     THE     FINE    ARTS. 


ABRAHAM    M.   COZZENS,  WILLIAM   J.    HOPPIN, 

JONATHAN   STURGES,  THOMAS   J.    BRYAN, 

ANDREW   WARNER,  EDWARD  SATTERLEE. 

ABRAHAM    M.   COZZENS,  Chairman. 

ANDREW   WARNER,  Secretary. 

[The  President,  Librarian,  and  Chairman  of  the  Executive  Committee 
are  members,  ex  officio,  of  the  Committee  on  the  Fine  Arts.] 


INTRODUCTION. 


This  volume  is  the  first  of  a  series  of  Collections  ivhich 
the  Neiv-  York  Historical  Society  proposes  to  issue,  tender 
the  provisions  of  its  '"''Publication  Fund.''' 

The  p)reparation  of  this  volume  was  entrusted  by  the 
Society  to  a  Committee  of  three  of  its  members^ 

George  Bancroft, 
John  Romeyn  Brodhead, 
George  Henry  Moore. 

In  executing  their  duty  the  Committee,  after  careful 
consideration,  decided : 

I.  That  the  general  contents  of  this  volume  of  Collec- 
tions shmdd  illustrate,  directly  or  relatively,  the  History 
of  New  York. 

II.  That  as  the  series  is  7iot  intended  to  be  a  history, 
but  only  materials  for  history,  7ieither  chronological  se- 
quence nor  homogeneousness  of  subject  is  necessary. 

III.  That  the  documents  and  p)apers  given  in  the 
collection,  shoidd  be  printed  with  literal  fidelity  to  the 
origiiials,  and  without  unnecessary  annotation. 

The  Committee  believe  that  these  p)rinciples  have  been 
faithfully  observed. 


Xll  INTRODUCTION. 

They  further  remarlc  that  the  cojitents  of  this  volume 
are  mainly  original^  and  give  information  which  schol- 
ars in  American  History  must  pronounce  to  he  of  a  value 
not  exceeded^  if  equalled^  by  oMy  similar  publication. 

With  this  conviction^  the  first  Committee  of  the 
Neiv-York  Historical  Society  appointed  under  the  re- 
quirements of  its  ^'"Publication  Fund,''''  submit  their  work 
to  public  judgment. 

New  York,  December,  1868. 


CONTENTS. 


I.  THE  CONTINUATION  OF  CHALMERS'S 
POLITICAL  ANNALS. 

PAGE 

Political  Annals  of  the   Present    United   Colonies. 

Book  II. — Chapter  I., 5 

Review  of  the  reign  of  James  2d. — The  abdication. — The 
RevohUion. — The  accession  of  William  and  Mary. — Con- 
duct of  Scotland. — Proceedings  of  Ireland, — Remarks. — 
Prince  of  Orange  writes  circular  letters  to  the  Colonies. — 
The  orders  of  the  Privy  Council.— Subsequent  conduct  of 
Virginia. — A  revolution  in  Maryland  ; — and  approbation 
of  William. — Pennsylvania  continues  its  former  adminis- 
tration.—Affairs  of  Massachusetts  : — Intrigues  of  the 
agents  : — The  consequences  : — Revolution  at  Boston  : — 
The  Insurgents  resume  their  ancient  government. — Which 
is  approved  by  William. — The  conduct  of  the  other  Colo- 
nies of  New  England. — A  revolution  at  New  York ; — 
which  ends  unhappily  for  the  principal  agent. — The  Jer- 
seys remain  without  any  perceivable  government. — The 
Carolinians  proclaim  William  and  Mary. — Observations  : 
— And  inference. 

Authorities  and  Notes, 33^ 

Chapter   II., 41 

Embarrassments  of  William. — He  prepares  for  wai\ — State  of 
Virginia. — Its  complaints  against  Lord  Howard,  the  late 
governor,  to  that  prince  ; — to  the  Commons. — Nicholson 
sent  thither  Lieutenant-Governor. — His  administration. — 


XIV  CONTENTS. 

PAGE 

An  Indian  war  begins  in  New  England. — The  conduct  of 
Andros. — The  proceedings  of  the  Committee  of  Safety. — 
The  attack  on  Acadie. — The  French  retaliate. — The  ex- 
pedition against  Quebeck. — Subsequent  distress  of  New 
England. — The  solicitation  of  a  new  charter. — Affairs  of 
New  York  ; — and  of  Canada. — The  five  confederated 
tribes  prepare  against  the  French  invasion. — Schenectady 
sacked. — Subsequent  conduct  of  New  York. — Governor 
Sloughter  arrives  here. — His  administration. — Ingoldsby 
assumes  the  administration  after  his  death. — State  of  the 
Jerseys  ; — of  Pennsylvania. — Affairs  of  Maryland. — ^A 
change  of  government. — Copley  appointed  governor. — 
Condition  of  North  Carolina. — Distractions  of  South  Caro- 
lina.— Ludwell  appointed  Governor. — His  administration. 
— Is  succeeded  by  Smith. — His  prudent  advice  to  the 
Proprietaries. 
Atjthoriiies  and  Notes,  ......     87 

Ohaptek  III., 94 

Affairs  of  England. — State  of  Virginia  at  tlie  arrival  of  An- 
dros : — His  administration. — Government  of  Maryland 
seized  by  William  without  legal  process : — Commission 
and  arrival  of  Copley,  the  first  royal  governor  : — Proceed- 
ings of  the  Assembly  ; — and  disai^pointment  of  the  prov- 
ince : — Provisional  Commission  of  Andros  : — And  the  pru- 
dent rule  of  Nicholson. — The  miseries  of  Massachusetts 
at  the  arrival  of  Phipps; — his  irregularities: — The  Indian 
wars  ; — and  domestic  regulations  : — His  recal. — Stough- 
ton  succeeds  as  Lieutenant-governor : — His  prudent  con- 
duct : — Invasions  and  distress  of  the  colony. — Delibera- 
tions of  the  ministers  of  England. — Aflairs  of  New 
Hampshire. — Unhappy  state  of  New  York. — Invaded 
from  Canada. — Wars  and  negotiations  of  the  Five  Nations. 
— Troops  and  warlike  stores  sent  from  England. — Active 
administration  of  Fletcher  : — His  conduct  in  Connecticut. 
— Factions  and  intrigues. — ^Events  of  the  War. — Prosper- 
ity of  the  City  of  New  York. — The  Government  of  Penn- 
sylvania seized  into  the  King's  hands. — Fletcher  appointed 
governor  in  the  room  of  Penn. — His  administration. — He 


CONTENTS.  XV 

PAGE 

appoints  Markham  his  deputy. — Public  disputes. — Penu 
restored. — Subsequent  proceedings. — Aifairs  of  Carolina  : 
— Arclidale  restores  its  tranquillity. — Deplorable  state  of 
the  Commerce  of  England. — Complaints. — The  Board  of 
Trade  established. — Projects  for  enabling  the  Colonies  to 
defend  themselves. 
Atjthokities  and  Notes, 163 


II.  THE  GOLDEN  LETTERS  ON  SMITH'S 

HISTORY,  1759-1760,     ...  I8i 

III.  DOCUMENTS     RELATING     TO    THE 

ADMINISTRATION  OF  LEISLER. 

Minutes  of  the  Council  at  New  York,  March  1 
TO  June  11,  1689, 241 

Proceedings  of  the  Council,  Magistrates,  and 
Officers,  etc.,  April  27  to  June  6,  1689,     .         .     272 

Letter  of  Mathew  Plowman  to  the  Marquis  Hal- 
ifax, New  York,  June  7  and  August  14,  1689,   .     290 

Henry  Cutler's  Deposition  concerning  Gover- 
nor Nicholson,  June  10,  1689,      ....     292 

By-Laws  of  Captain  Lodwick's  Company  of  Sol- 
diers, July  9,  1689, 293 

Charles  Lodwick's  Deposition  concerning  Gov- 
ernor Nicholson,  July  25,  1689,  .         .         .     295 

Leisler's  Warrant  and  Instructions  to  Johannes 
Provoost,  etc.,  August  12,  1689,  .         .        .     295 

Statement,  etc.,  of  Ensign  Joost  Stoll,  August 
20,  1689, 297 

Samuel  Paul  Dufour's  Deposition  concerning  Mr. 
RiGGS,  January  6, 1689-90,         ....         298 

Copy  of  Richard  Ingoldsby's  Commission,  Septem- 
ber 10,  1690, 299 

Ingoldsby's  Letter  demanding  the  port,  January 

30,  1690-91, 300 

Ingoldsby's  Warrant  to  Captain  Samuel  Moore, 

30,  1690-91, 300 


XVI  CONTENTS. 

PAGE 

Leisler's  Warrant  to  Major  Beekman,  February 

1,  1690-91, 301 

Leisler's  order  for  Reducing  the  Forces  raised 

ON  Long  Island,  February  5,  1690-91,  .         .     302 

Leisler's  Answer  to  Ingoldsby  concerning  Prison- 
ers IN  THE  Fort,  February  14,  1690-91,    .         .         302 
Leisler's  Order  concerning  Persons  from  Albany 

AND  Ulster,  February  17,  1690,  .         .         .         .     303 
Leisler  TO  Ingoldsby,  March  1,  1690-91,     .         .         304 
Leisler  to  Colonel  Dudley,  March  4,  1690-91,     .     304 
Declaration   of  the  Freeholders  and  Inhabit- 
ants OF  Long  Island  and  Parts  adjacent,        .         304 
Leisler  to  Ingoldsby,  March  5,  1690,      .         .         .     305 
Leisler's   Declaration    or   Protest  against  In- 
goldsby, March  10,  1690-91,      ....         306 
Leisler's  Letter  to  Colonel  Sloughter  at  Ber- 
muda, March  12,  1690-91, 309 

Leisler's  Order  to  Captain  Duyckinck,  concern- 
ing the  Blockhouse,  March  13,  1690-91,         .         310 
Sloughter's  Warrant  to  Ingoldsby  to  take  Pos- 
session OF  THE  Fort,  etc.,  March  20,  1690-91,     .     310 
Account  of  what  passed  when  Lieut.  Churchill 

came  before  THE  Court,  .         .         .         .         311 

Account  of  Proceedings  in  Court,   (in    Dutch, 

with  a  translation,) 311 

Affidavit  of  George  Dolstone,  February  19,1691,  314 
Affidavit  of  Thomas  Dawson,  February  19,  1691,  318 
Affidavit  of  Thomas  Jeffers,  February  19,  16  91,  319 
Affidavit  of  Jacob  Teller,  February  23,  1691,  .  321 
Affidavit  of  Boudewijn  De  Witt,  February  23, 

1691, 323 

Affidavit  of  Isaac  De  Riemer,  February  24, 1691,  324 
Affidavit  of  Kiliaan  Van  Renssalaer,  March  1, 

1691-92, 328 

Order  in  Council  upon  the  Petition  of  Jacob 

Leisler,  (the  Son,)  January  7,  1691,         .         .         331 
Jacob  Leisler's  Petition  to  the  Lords  of  Trade 

AND  Plantations, 332 

Petition   of  Abraham  Gouverneur   and    others, 
under  Sentence  op  Death,  to  the  Queen,       .         333 


CONTENTS.  XVll 

PAGE 

Order  of  the  Privy  Council,  Mat  13,  1692,  .     333 

Letter  ofGeeardus  Beekman  andMyndert  Coer- 
TEN  TO  Nicolas  Collen,  Sept.  29, 1693,    .         .         334 

Petition  of  the  Widow  of  Leisler,  her  Son  and 
SIX  Daughters, 335 

Petition  to  the  King  to  Reverse  the  Attainders,     336 

Proceedings  of  the  Privy  Council  on  the  Peti- 
tion OF  Leisler  and  Gouverneur,  February  28, 
1694, 337 

Petition  of  Leisler  and  Gouverneur  to  the 
House  of  Lords,         ......         339 

Petition  of  Jacob  Mauritz  and  others  to  the 
King, .         .         .340 

Memorandum  for  an  Affidavit — incomplete,  July 

31,  1694, 342 

Deposition  of  Citizens  of  New  York,  August  22, 
1694, 345 

Deposition  of  Gerardus  Beekman,  Sept.  1,  1694,        347 

Notes  of  the  Examinations  before  the  Committee 
OF  THE  House  op  Commons,  April  24-29,  1695,     .     348 

An  Answer  to  the  Reasons  against  Leisler's 
Bill, 357 

The  Case  of  Mr.  Jacob  Leisler,      ....     362 

Loyalty  Vindicated, 365 

A  Bill  for  the  Reconciling  of  Parties,  June  14, 
1698, 394 

Answer  of  the  Church  Wardens  of  the  Dutch 
Church  concerning  the  Reburial  of  Leisler 
AND  Milborne  in  THEIR  Church,  October  14, 1698,     397 

Letter  from  Members  op  the  Dutch  Church  in 
New  York  to  the  Classis  of  Amsterdam,  Oc- 
tober 21,  1698, 398 

Petition  and  Remonstrance  of  the  New  York 
House  of  Representatives,  May  15, 1699,       .         412 

Deposition  of  Abraham  Gouverneur,  August  21, 
1699, 416 

Petition  OF  Jacob  Leisler  TO  THE  King,      .         .         418 

The  Earl  of  Jersey  to  the  Earl  of  Bellomont, 
February  6,  1699-1700,          .         .         .         .         •     419 


VMU  CONTENTS. 

PAGE 

Jacob  Maueitz's  Bill  of  Disbursements,  etc.,  June 
11,  1700-01, 420 

Jacob  Leisler's   Petition  to   the   Governor  and 
Council, 421 

Jacob  Leisler's  Account  of  the  Debt  of  the  Col- 
ony OP  New  York  due  him,  February  18,  1712,  .     422 

Petition  of  Jacob  Leislee  to  the  New  York  As- 
sembly, April  24,  1714, 422 

Memoranda  made  by  Du  Simitiere,      .         .         .     423 

Index,      .         .         . 429 


I. 


THE   CONTINUATION 


CHALMERS'S  POLITICAL  ANNALS. 


NOTE. 


George  Chalmers,  Fellow  of  the  Royal  Society  and  the  Society 
of  Antiquaries,  Chief  Clerk  of  the  Committee  of  the  Privy  Council 
for  the  consideration  of  all  matters  relating  to  Trade  and  Foreign 
Plantations,  Colonial  Agent  for  the  Bahama  Islands,  and  author  of 
many  works  in  the  several  departments  of  literature,  died  in 
London,  31st  May,  1825,  aged  82  years.  A  native  of  Scotland,  he 
was  descended  from  the  Chalmers's  of  Pittensear,  in  the  County  of 
Moray  or  Elgin-shire.  He  was  born  in  the  end  of  the  year  1742,  at 
Fochabers,  and  was  educated,  first  at  the  Grammar-school  of  that 
town,  and  afterwards  at  King's  College,  Aberdeen,  where  the 
celebrated  Dr.  Reid  was  his  preceptor.  From  thence  he  removed 
to  Edinburgh,  where  he  studied  law,  which  he  afterwai-ds  practised 
in  this  country  more  than  ten  years,  till  the  breaking  out  of  the 
American  Revolution.  Returning  to  Great  Britain,  he  settled  in 
London,  where  he  applied  himself  to  literary  pursuits.  Chalmers 
first  distinguished  himself  by  the  publication  of  his  Political  Annals 
of  the  Present  Uviited  Colonies^  which  showed  a  thoi-ough  know- 
ledge of  colonial  history,  colonial  law,  and  colonial  policy.  This 
was  followed  by  several  other  works,  which  evinced  his  ability  and 
intimate  acquaintance  with  the  principles  of  commei'ce  and  political 
economy  which  lay  at  the  foundation  of  the  British  system;  and  led 
to  his  appointment,  in  1786,  to  the  responsible  public  office  which 
he  occupied  till  his  death.  His  assiduous  labor  in  the  literary  field, 
his  large  and  valuable  contributions  to  knowledge,  his  integrity, 
his  patriotism  and  public  spirit,  fully  entitled  him  to  the  character 
which  was  drawn  of  him  by  a  friend  as  a  "  faithful  servant  of  the 
public,  who  had  spent  a  long  and  active  life  in  the  honorable 
discharge  of  public  duties  and  the  zealous  dissemination  of  useful 
knowledge." 


2  PREFATORY    NOTE. 

The  work  which  is  continued  in  the  following  pages  is  too  well 
known  to  requii'e  introduction  or  comment.  Its  first  appearance 
challenged  the  admiration  of  historical  scholars  (even  those 
who  were  hostile  to  the  principles  of  the  writer),  as  a  substantial 
contribution  to  American  History,  illustrating  the  annals  of  the 
Colonies,  and  especially  the  relations  in  which  they  had  stood  to 
Great  Britain  from  their  origin,  from  original  authorities — public 
records  and  state  papers.  The  writer  of  the  preface  to  the 
Revolt  of  the  American  Colonies,  published  in  Boston  in  1845, 
very  justly  said :  "  Notwithstanding  the  tone  and  object  of 
Chalmers's  Annals,  the  work  has  ever  been  quoted  by  American 
writers  with  entire  confidence  and  respect,  and  this  circumstance 
speaks  clearly  in  favor  of  the  author's  candor  and  honesty.  Judging 
from  the  free  use  which  has  constantly  been  made  of  this  work,  as 
well  as  from  the  matter  it  contains,  we  may  justly  regard  it  as 
holding  an  important  place  in  our  historical  literature." 

The  volume  published  in  1 780  brought  the  Annals  down  to  the  era 
of  the  Revolution  of  1688,  and  disclosed  the  author's  intention  to 
continue  the  work  ;  but  he  changed  his  purpose,  and  nothing  more 
appeared  ;  although,  he  left  at  his  death  the  continuation  in  manu- 
script, which  is  now  for  the  first  time  printed  from  the  original  in 
the  handwriting  of  the  author,  carefully  revised  and  prepared  for 
the  press  by  himself  Continuing  the  Annals  nearly  to  the  close  of 
the  seventeenth  century,  its  undoubted  authenticity  and  its  clearness 
of  detail  justify  regrets  that  the  work  was  not  completed  to  a  later 
period,  and  that  it  has  not  been  published  before. 

•  Chalmers's  Library  and  MSS.  were  sold  by  auction  in  London, 
in  1841  and  1842.  This  MS.  with  others  then  came  into  the  posses- 
sion of  Thomas  Thorpe,  the  London  bookseller,  from  whom  it  was 
purchased  by  Mr.  Bancroft,  io  whose  liberality  the  New  York 
Historical  Society  is  indebted  for  this  precious  addition  to  its 
manuscript  treasures. 


POLITICAL  ANNALS 


PRESENT    UNITED    COLONIES, 


FROM    THEIR 


SETTLEM:ElsrT 


FEACE    of  1763. 


Compiled  chiefly  from  Records,  and  authorized  by  the  Insertion 
of  State  Papers, 


By  G. C. 


"Anecdotes  enow  to  glut  the  curiosity  of  some  persons  and  to  silence  all  the 
captious  cavils  of  others  will  never  be  furnished  by  any  portion  of  history :  But 
he  who  is  content  to  read  and  observe  like  a  Senator  and  Statesman  will  find  as 
imtch  information  as  he  wants."  Bolingbrokb. 


BOOK    11. 


POLITICAL    A^-NALS 


PEESENT  UNITED   COLONIES. 


BOOK  II.  —  CHAPTER   I. 

Review  of  the  reign  of  James  'id. — The  abdication. — The 
Hevoltition. — The  accession  of  William  and  Mary. — 
Conduct  of  Scotland. — Proceedings  of  Ireland. — Remarks. 
— Prince  of  Orange  writes  circular  letters  to  the  Colonies. 
— The  orders  of  the  Privy  Council. — Subseqtoent  conduct 
of  Virginia. — A  Revolution  in  Maryland; — and  appro- 
bation of  William. — Pennsylvania  continues  its  former 
administration. — A  fairs  of  Massachusetts : — Intrigues 
of  the  Agents : — T}ie  Consequences  : — Revolution  at  Bos- 
ton : — The  Insu7^gents  resume  their  ancient  government. — 
Which  is  approved  hy  William. — The  conduct  of  the 
other  Colonies  of  New  England. — A  Revolution  at  New 
YorTc  ; — which  ends  unhappily  for  the  principal  Agent. 
— The  Jerseys  remain  without  any  perceivable  govern- 
ment.— The  Carolinians  proclaim  William,  and  Mary. 
— Observations  :  And  inference. 

FEW  princes  appear  to  have  more  justty  merited  the 
loss  of  the  attachment  of  their  subjects  than  did 
James  2d  of  England.  Neither  instructed  by  the  sad 
example  of  a  father,  nor  by  the  infelicities  of  a  brother, 
to  his  natural  aversion  to  popular  rights  he  added  that 
fondness  for  personal  power,  which  he  had  acquired  dur- 
ing his  exile  in  his  youth,  and  which  had  been  confirmed 
during  the  prosperity  of  his  riper  years.  Whatever 
may  have  been   his  private  virtues,  which  as  a   man 


6  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

procured  him  justly  the  affection  of  his  friends,  his  po- 
litical prepossessions  and  religious  principles  seem  to 
have  disqualified  him  for  holding  the  scepter  of  a  mon- 
archy, the  forms  of  ^vhich  were  now  so  precisely  ascer- 
tained as  to  deprive  him  of  those  justifications,  that 
deducted  something  from  the  demerits  of  his  predeces- 
sors. A  course  of  uniform  misrule,^  owing  partly  to 
his  own  bigotr}^,  perhaj^s  more  to  the  profligate  treachery 
of  his  ministers,  all  tending  to  a  dissolution  of  the  con- 
stitution, brought  on  a  crisis,  that  constrained  all  parties 
in  the  nation  to  decide  on  the  necessity  of  a  revolution. 
Did  the  misconduct  of  that  monarch  amount  in  the  judg- 
ment of  every  the  "to  an  endeavor  to  subvert  the  gov- 
ernment,''Hhe  result  of  liis  deliberate  judgment  had  com- 
pletelj^  overthrown  the  subordinate  systems  of  the  colo- 
nies. And  the  provmcials  had  been  already  reduced  to 
that  deplorable  state  of  servitude,  Avhich  the  people  of 
Great  Britain  only  dreaded  as  the  greatest  of  evils. 
The  Prince  of  Orange,  in  order  to  promote  his  own  views, 
brought  deliverance  to  both,  whicli  tlie}'  had  sighed  for 
in  vain,  but  for  his  timely  arrival.^ 

The  moment  James  relinquished  a  government  de- 
scended to  him  through  a  long  line  of  ancestors,  hi  the 
ill-founded  hope,  that  by  introducing  universal  anarchy, 
it  would  be  impossible  to  reestablish  the  administration 
in  his  absence,  the  Prince,  by  the  request  of  an  extra- 
ordinary assembly  of  peers  and  commons,  assumed  the 
reins  which  the  infatuated  King  in  despair  had  thrown 
away  :  And  he  summoned  in  his  own  name  a  conven- 
tion of  the  states  of  the  realm.  Wlien  this  memorable 
council  assembled  on  the  2 2d  of  January,  1689,  the 
commons  made  it  only  the  work  of  one  slight  debate  to 
decide  this  momentous  question ;  '•  whether  the  kingly 
office  was  vacant :"  Admitting  at  the  same  time  the 
validity  of  this  important  proposition  of  constitutional 
law,  that  though  James  had  fled  the  regal  hrancli  of  the 
body  politic  still  remained.  For  the  whole  fabrick  of 
government  must  otherwise  have  fallen  into  ruins :  The 
peers  would  have  been  degraded  from  their  high   sta- 


CHALMERS  S    POLITICAL    ANNALS.  7 

tion ;  the  electors  of  the  commons  must  have  lost  the 
privilege  of  election  ;  every  order  in  the  state  would 
have  been  reduced  to  a  level :  And  the  people  must  hava 
reared  on  new  foundations  an  edifice  in  the  room  of  the 
venerable  pile  which  had  been  thus  overthrown.  But 
the  prudent  moderation  of  the  wise  happily  tempered 
the  inclinations  of  the  vehement.  And  when  the  va- 
cancy of  the  regal  office  was  at  length  decided  by  the 
agreement  of  the  two  houses  of  Parliament  after  various 
debates,  it  followed  as  a  necessarj^  consequence  that  it 
must  be  again  properly  filled.  The  Prince  and  Princess 
of  Orange  were  accordingly  declared  by  them  King  and 
Queen  of  England,  and  the  dominions  to  the  same  he- 
longing.  All  parties  in  the  nation  concurred  in  admit- 
ting the  necessity  of  a  revolution,  and  the  wise  of  those 
days  from  this  circumstance  inferred  the  justice  of  it. 
England  and  her  Colonies  were  equally  benefited  by  this 
signal  event ;  because  the  sufferings  of  both  were  equally 
relieved. 

The  change  of  an  administration  that  was  absolutely 
bad  to  one  many  degrees  better  was  by  no  means  the 
sole  advantage  which  the  nation  derived  from  the  Kev- 
olution.  The  nature  and  principles  of  the  constitu- 
tion before  extremely  indefinite  were  not  only  ascer- 
tained, but  the  power  of  the  legislature  and  the  pre- 
rogatives of  the  supreme  executive  magistrate  were 
asserted  and  established  over  every  dominion  of  the 
crown.  Both  Whigs  and  Tories,  suspending  their 
mutual  animosities  in  the  moment  of  common  danger, 
were  obliged  to  confess :  That  though  the  wants  of  in- 
dividuals discovered  the  necessity  of  government,  yet  the 
different  modes  of  it,  which  have  been  discovered  in 
different  countries  and  which  were  the  result  of  accident 
or  design,  were  not  consequently  founded  in  natural 
right :  That  those  expedients  which  at  length  acquired 
the  appellation  of  constitutional  maxims,  and  Avhich 
public  wisdom  framed  for  the  general  benefit,  must  at 
all  times  be  understood  and  re<iulated  accordino-  to  the 
ends  for  which  they  were  designed ;  since  otherwise  the 


8  THE    CONTINUATION   OF 

utility  of  tliem  might  be  sacrificed  to  tlie  means  :  That 
nations,  being  composed  of  numerous  individuals,  who 
in  their  associated  state  possess  the  natural  rights  of 
men,  must  in  the  same  cases  of  urgent  necessity  be  en- 
titled to  the  same  powers  for  defence  and  preservation 
in  the  aggregate  body :  That  from  the  plainest  impos- 
sibility the  people  at  large  can  neither  deliberate  nor 
act,  except  in  their  corporate  capacity,  which  under  the 
English  constitution  is  vested  in  the  different  estates  in 
various  proportions :  That  as  in  these  the  power  of  the 
whole  is  invested  all  rules  of  mere  positive  institution 
must  necessarily  be  subject  to  its  controul :  That  as  the 
representative  of  one  estate  had  deserted  his  station  and 
relinquished  his  high  office,  the  power  of  the  whole  de- 
volved on  the  other  two  for  the  purpose  of  reestablish- 
ing the  energy  of  government,  because  it  was  necessary 
at  the  unparalleled  conjuncture.  Such  were  the  wise 
and  salutary  principles  by  which  the  rectitude  of  the 
mighty  event  beforementioned  was  defended,  on  which 
the  present  establishment  was  erected  as  the  firmest 
foundations.  These  maxims  were  confirmed,  and  the 
rights  of  the  nation  declared  *  at  the  same  time  that  the 
crown  was  tendered  to  the  Prince  and  Princess  of 
Orange ;  while  they  accepted  the  one,  the  others  they 
affirmed :  And  the  prerogatives  of  the  prince  and  the 
rights  of  the  people  were  in  future  enjoyed  under  the 
same  positive  law  which  insured  both. 

But  though  the  Prince  of  Orange  had  thus  acquired 
possession  of  the  throne  of  England  he  derived  not 
thereby  any  title  to  that  of  Scotland,  because,  both  na- 
tions being  equally  sovereign  and  independent,  the  rules 
prescribed  by  the  one  enforced  no  obedience  in  the 
other.  The  same  arts  which  had  been  used  to  procure 
the  unanimity  of  the  English  were  soon  successfully  em- 
ployed to  insure  the  concurrence  of  the  Scotch  in  a 
similar  measure.  The  voice  of  the  people  sent  to  the 
Convention  such  members  as  favored  the  views  of 
William,  because  the  interests  of  both  on  that  occasion 
happily  coincided.     This  extraordinary  assembly,  unem- 


CHALMERS  S    POLITICAL    ANNALS.  9 

barrassed  by  the  verbal  disputations  of  the  English, 
so  unworthy  of  men  contending  for  their  rights,  soon 
resolved  in  language,  which  shewed  equally  the  former 
oppressions  and  present  disposition  of  the  nation  :  "That 
James  2d  by  his  evil  deeds  had  forfaulted  his  right  to 
the  crown,"  The  scepter  which  had  been  thus  struck 
from  the  hand  of  that  deserted  monarch  was  instantly 
tendered  to  his  fortunate  rival,  accompanied  with  such 
conditions  as  the  same  authority  had  a  right  to  prescribe., 
While  the  great  were  busied  in  promoting  their  various 
interested  projects,  men  of  discernment  remarked :  That 
as  neither  James  6th,  nor  his  posterity  had  abdicated 
the  government  of  Scotland  by  assuming  the  command 
of  a  neighboring  kingdom,  the  late  relinquishment  of 
James  2d  of  his  authority  in  England  did  not  affect 
his  Scotch  prerogatives :  That  the  transcendant  power 
which  now  deprived  him  and  his  posterity  of  their 
hereditary  titles  might  with  equal  propriety  have  given 
them  to  strangers  to  his  blood,  or  recognized  the  con- 
tinuance of  his  rule.  Ages  have  applauded  the  wisdom 
of  a  choice,  which  paved  the  way  for  a  subsequent 
union  of  interests  and  affections,  that  have  been  suc- 
cessively strengthened  Avith  an  anxiety  which  shewed 
the  importance  of  them. 

Meanwhile  though  the  Convention  of  England  had 
recommended  Ireland  to  the  care  of  William,  he  resigned 
it  to  a  neglect,  which  soon  produced  embarrassments 
that  he  found  sufficient  cause  to  regret.  Not  only  the 
inhabitants,  but  Tyrconnel,  the  Lord  Lieutenant,  seem 
to  have  been  ready  to  acknowledge  the  title  and  to  obey 
the  commands  of  their  new  sovereigns,  had  any  rational 
measures  been  adopted  to  procure  the  one  or  to  enforce 
the  other.^  Entirely  occupied  with  the  factions  of  Eng- 
land, or  with  the  foreign  politics  which  continually 
floated  in  his  mind,  that  prince  would  neither  listen 
seriously  to  the  informations  brought  liim  from  Ireland, 
nor  attend  to  any  proposals  tliat  were  made  him  for  its 
reduction  :  Reflecting  probably  that  the  dej^endencies 
of  England  must  follow  her  fate,  or  temporizing  per- 


10  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

haps  because  he  knew  his  own  weakness.  But  though 
he  at  length  sent  Colonel  Hamilton,  a  known  partizan 
of  the  abdicated  King,  to  practise  on  the  hopes  and 
fears  of  Tyrconnel,  it  appears  not  that  any  official  notice 
of  the  recent  transfer  of  the  Crown  was  transmitted  to 
him,  or  any  formal  demand  made  either  of  recognition 
of  the  present  government  or  resignation  of  his  former 
authority.  A  declaration  ^  indeed  was  issued  in  Feb- 
ruary, 1689;  warning  the  crowds  of  Irish  who  had 
rushed  to  arms  of  their  danger ;  and  requiring  them  to 
retire  peaceably  to  their  homes,  on  pain  of  being  con- 
sidered as  rebels,  of  being  deemed  answerable  for  the 
miseries  of  their  country.  It  was  the  arrival  of  his  com- 
petitor in  Ireland,  during  the  subsequent  March,  at- 
tended by  many  nobility  and  gentry,  who  adhered  to  his 
fortunes,  and  a  few  French  officers,  that  roused  the 
attention  of  William  when  it  was  too  late.  Tyrconnel 
had  now  taken  a  decided  part  in  favor  of  his  late  master, 
and  had  pursued  the  most  vigorous  measures  for  put- 
ting his  government  in  the  most  respectable  state  of  de- 
fence ;  because  he  deemed  the  offers  of  William  unsuit- 
able to  the  extent  of  his  ambition.  Were  we  to  judge  of 
the  sentiments  of  men  by  the  complimentary  addresses 
which  were  poured  upon  James,  from  all  ranks  of  people, 
we  ouo;ht  to  consider  the  felicitv  of  the  Irish  as  abso- 
lutely  completed  by  the  presence  of  him  whom  they 
deemed  their  king.'^  Yet  the  happiness  of  this  prince 
did  not  keep  pace  with  the  festivity  of  the  multitudes, 
who  now  rejoiced  at  his  arrival.  And  notAvithstanding 
his  aversion  to  popular  assemblies,  he  was  constrained 
to  convene  a  Parliament  in  l^iay  1689.  The  proceed- 
ings of  this  assembly  have  been  transmitted  b}'  historians 
as  specimens  of  the  frantic  acts  of  despair  rather  than 
the  sober  deliberations  of  legislation.  Exulting  in  the 
presence  of  a  king,  and  transported  with  "  the  prospect 
of  independence  of' England''  among  otlier  extraordinary 
laws  it  passed  one  "  containing  a  recognition  of  his  title, 
and  an  abhorrence  of  the  usurpation  of  the  Prince  of 
Orange ;"  another   "  declaring  that  the  Parliament  of 


CHALMERS  S    POLITICAL    ANNALS.  11 

England  cannot  bind  Ireland,  that  no  appeals  ought  to 
be  allowed  to  her  judicatories."^  In  addition  to  the  cir- 
cumstance of  his  being  aided  by  a  French  force^  nothing 
was  there  now  wanting  to  render  James  completely  un- 
[)opular  in  England,  because  he  wounded  her  pride, 
while  he  struck  at  her  rights.  And  the  English  Parlia- 
ment, actuated  partly  by  their  antipathies,  but  more  by 
a  laudable  desire  "to  assert  the  Sovereignty  of  the 
Crown  "  not  long  after  declared  :  ^  "•  That  the  conven- 
tion of  persons  lately  met  at  Dublin,  and  pretending  to; 
be  a  Parliament  is  a  rebellious  assembly,  and  its  acts- 
illegal  and  void."  To  establish  the  validity  of  the  very 
different  laws  of  those  memorable  assemblies,  the  war 
of  Ireland  was  commenced.  After  various  events,  which 
entailed  innumerable  miseries  on  this  island,  and  which 
are  now  known  to  every  one,  the  capitulation  of 
Limerick,  concluded  in  October  1691,  at  length  decided 
the  contest  for  preeminence,  and  established  the  former 
government  of  England.  Happy  had  the  terms  of  that 
famous  pacification  been  adhered  to  with  an  attention 
and  rectitude  equal  to  the  bravery  with  which  they  were 
won. 

Nothing  can  enable  us  to  form  a  truer  judgment  of 
the  nature  and  extent  of  the  genuine  authority  of  the 
Parliaments  of  England,  of  Scotland,  and  of  Ireland, 
than  the  short  notices  before  mentioned.  Though  the 
former  had  alone  decided  on  the  necessity  of  a  Revolu- 
tion, and  transferred  the  scepter  to  other  hands  more 
worthy  of  it,  these  resolutions  did  not  affect  the  deter- 
minations of  the  second :  But  the  decisions  of  the  first 
were  absolutely  conclusive  with  regard  to  the  various 
English  dependencies,  and  all  subordinate  legislatures 
were  bound  to  obey  them.  When  it  was  once  declared 
'that  the  throne  was  vacant  by  the  abdication  of  James, 
he  ceased  to  be  the  King  of  Ireland,  and  became  an 
alien  to  its  people  and  its  laws.  The  moment  legal 
notice  ^^  was  communicated  to  the  Lord-Lieutenant  of 
the  demise  of  the  crown  by  the  accession  of  William 
and  Mary,  it  became  his  duty  to  announce  an  event  so 


12  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

interesting  to  every  one,  and  to  submit  to  the  authority 
of  his  new  Sovereigns  by  the  administration  of  the 
government  in  tlieir  names.  The  late  King  could  thence- 
forth no  more  interfere  in  the  execution  of  the  laws  than 
any  other  monarch  of  Europe.  And  we  may  now  in 
the  remarkable  words  of  Parliament  ^^  infer :  "  That  as 
the  Kingdom  of  Ireland  was  annexed  to  the  Imperial 
Crown  of  England,  all  persons  in  Ireland  that  did  not 
submit  to  the  government  thereof  were  rebels  and  guilty 
of  high  treason." 

If  from  Ireland  we  turn  our  views  to  the  other 
provinces  of  the  Empire  beyond  the  Atlantic,  we  shall 
behold  a  very  different  scene,  because  they  were  animated 
by  a  very  dissimilar  spirit.  The  prince  of  Orange  was 
no  sooner  requested  to  assume  the  direction  of  affairs 
than  he  fixed  his  attention  on  the  Colonies,  for  the 
happy  state  of  which  he  professed  a  particular  care. 
He  was  not  ignorant  that  tlie  late  King  in  the  midst  of 
his  anxieties  had  given  them  notice  of  the  intended 
invasion  from  Holland;  and  he  thought  it  prudent  to 
communicate  the  best  intelligence  of  the  event  of  it.^^ 
He  wrote  circular  letters  to  the  various  governors ; 
directing  that  all  persons  "  not  being  papists,"  lawfully 
holding  offices  civil  or  military  shall  continue  to  execute 
them  ;  requiring  justice  to  be  administered  as  formerly ; 
and  commanding  all  degrees  of  men  to  support  their 
authority.^^  But  the  cliaracteristic  reserve  of  that 
prince  appears  in  this  transaction  extremely  conspicu- 
ous :  He  did  not  mention  the  name  of  the  late  King 
lest  he  should  admit  his  authority  or  recall  the  attention 
of  men  to  the  unfortunate,  which  generally  solicits 
their  pity :  Nor  did  he  direct  the  colonial  governments 
to  be  administered  in  his  own  name,  lest  he  should  have 
assumed  a  power  that  did  not  yet  belong  to  him.  And 
by  giving  general  directions  he  left  the  several  governors 
to  follow  the  dictates  of  their  peculiar  inclinations.  As 
there  was  no  demise,  since  there  was  yet  no  transmis- 
sion of  the  crown,  thej''  acted  on  that  uncommon  occa- 
sion it  should  seem  in  strict  conformity  to  law,  when 


CHALMEES'S    POLITICAL    ANNALS.  13 

they  continued  the  administration  of  affairs  in  the  name 
of  the  abdicated  monarch,  long  after  he  had  deserted  the 
nation  and  ceased  to  be  king. 

But  the  colonies  happily  did  not  continue  long  in  a 
state  of  uncertainty,  which  proved  extremely  inconven- 
ient to  all,  and  in  some  produced  numerous  disorders 
that  they  found  abundant  cause  to  lament.  The  Privy 
Council  in  February,  1G89,  informed  the  governors  of 
the  accession  of  the  Prince  and  Princess  of  Orange  to 
the  Crown  of  England  and  of  the  territories  to  the  same 
belonging ;  directing  them  at  the  same  time  to  proclaim 
William  and  Mary  according  to  the  form  inclosed  with 
the  requisite  solemnities  on  the  like  occasion.  The 
royal  pleasure  was  signified  that  every  one  should  con- 
tinue in  office  till  further  orders.  And  copies  of  the  new 
oaths  to  the  government  were  transmitted  with  direc- 
tions to  cause  them  to  be  administered  in  the  place 
of  the  former  oaths  of  Supremacy  and  Allegiance.^* 
Tidings  however  of  the  extraordinary  change  in  Eng- 
land, though  imperfect  in  proportion  to  the  distance, 
soon  reached  Virginia.  And  there  were  not  wanting 
numbers,  who,  forming  their  opinions  from  what  they 
wished,  flattered  themselves,  that  as  there  was  no  longer 
any  king  in  England,  there  was  now  no  government 
within  that  dominion.  The  interested  with  their  usual 
industry  spread  reports  tlie  most  incredible,  which  the 
multitude  believed  with  their  wonted  credulity.  Being 
told  "  that  the  papists  of  Maryland  and  Virginia  had 
machinated  to  introduce  foreign  Indians  to  destroy  the 
protestants "  this  story,  however  groundless  and  wild, 
while  it  awakened  former  jealousies,  so  terrified  a  people 
accustomed  to  Indian  massacres  that  they  ran  to  arms 
with  the  promptitude  of  men  urged  by  a  mixture  of 
hatred  and  fear.  Though  this  rumor  soon  appeared  to 
be  groundless,  others  equally  void  of  foundation  sprung 
up  in  succession,  and  agitated  a  credulous  people.  The 
prudent  vigilance  of  the  council  and  principal  inhabi- 
tants for  the  present  extinguished  the  spark  whicli  began 
to  kindle.     But  their  utmost  exertions  could  not  lono^ 


14  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

have  prevented  what  had  been  only  smothered  from 
blazing  out  anew,  had  not  the  orders  before  mentioned 
been  timely  received,  "which  gave  a  check  to  unruly 
spirits."  William  and  Mary  were  accordingly  pro- 
claimed, in  April,  1689,  "Lord  and  Lady  of  Virginia," 
with  the  same  readiness  and  acclamations  as  if  they  had 
succeeded  by  a  course  of  descent  long  foreseen,  and  uni- 
versally approved.^^  We  may  thence  date  the  demise 
of  the  cro^yn  and  a  variety  of  important  consequences. 
The  allegiance  of  the  colonists  was  transferred  without 
their  consent  from  their  former  prince  to  their  new 
sovereigns  by  an  act  of  Parliament  which  gave  those 
monarchs  the  power  to  command,  and  obliged  every 
subject  to  obey ;  in  their  names  every  act  of  government 
was  now  performed ;  all  yielded  willing  obedience  to  an 
administration,  which  was  agreeable  to  the  inclinations 
of  the  people,  under  the  highest  penalty  known  to  the 
law  of  England :  And  the  repose  of  the  colony  was  once 
more  established,  with  the  usual  blessings  which  flow 
from  internal  tranquillity. 

Had  the  same  official  orders  been  transmitted  to 
Marjdand  by  the  same  fortunate  conveyance  they  had 
probably  prevented  a  civil  war  with  its  attendant  evils. 
But  Lord  Baltimore  and  William  Penn,  having  appear- 
ed before  the  Lords  of  the  Committee  of  plantations  on 
the  18  of  February,  1689,  "were  informed  that  it  was 
expected  of  them,  that  they  should  cause  their  ]).lajestys 
to  be  proclaimed  in  Maryland  and  in  Pennsylvania:" 
Both  promised  to  obey  any  commands  from  that  board. 
And  soon  after  the  same  orders  and  proclamations  as 
had  been  sent  to  Virginia  were  delivered  to  them  by 
the  Privy  Council.  ^^  But  the  letters  which  they  trans- 
mitted owing  to  the  irregularity  of  conveyance  during 
those  days,  were  never  received.  The  rulers  of  Mary- 
land, actuated  partly  by  their  regard  to  forms  but 
perhaps  more  by  their  principles,  did  not  think  them- 
selves authorized  l^y  the  example  of  their  neighbours  to 
proclaim  the  King  and  Queen.  Though  this  conduct 
may   have   been   more  strictly   legal    than    altogether 


CHALMEKS'S    POLITICAL    ANNALS.  15 

prudent,  a  different  proceeding,  however  inconsistent 
with  rigid  duty,  had  been  extremely  acceptable  and 
recommended  to  favour.  Meanwhile  intelligence  of  the 
designs  in  favour  of  the  Prince  of  Orange  having  found 
its  way  into  Maryland,  men  of  active  tempers  pre- 
pared to  draw  from  the  distractions  of  England  those 
advantages  to  themselves  which  had  been  at  all  times 
done  on  similar  occasions.  On  the  pretence  that  three 
thousand  Indians  had  invaded  the  province,  as  early  as 
the  25th  of  March,  1689,  Colonel  Jowles  requested  the 
Deputy  Governors  to  send  hira  arms  to  enable  the 
})eople  to  repel  the  invaders  of  their  countr3\  Darnel, 
one  of  the  governors,  repaired  himself  soon  after  with  a 
becoming  spirit  to  the  supposed  scene  of  action :  And 
finding  the  inhabitants  in  arms  offered  to  lead  them  in 
person  against  the  enemies  of  their  peace.  But  though 
various  rumors  were  traced,  which  many  believed  and 
more  affected  to  do  so,  "  upon  the  most  diligent  search 
no  Indians  anywhere  appeared."  The  apprehensions 
of  the  multitude  being  now  in  a  great  measure  removed 
tlie  country  enjoyed  till  the  16th  of  July  its  accustomed 
repose.  The  sagacious  now  suspected  what  was  un- 
doubtedly the  truth :  "  That  the  whole  had  only  been  a 
contrivance  of  designing  men  who  under  this  pretence 
wanted  only  to  raise  an  insurrection."  ^^ 

The  President  of  Virginia  in  the  meantime  informed 
the  Ministers  of  England,  that  the  King  and  Queen  had 
not  been  proclaimed  in  Maryland.  It  was  to  no 
purpose  for  Lord  Baltimore  to  affirm  that  he  had 
transmitted  express  orders  for  that  purpose:  With  a 
promptitude  equal  to  the  importance  of  the  business,  he 
was  ordered  in  August,  1689,  "to  send  duplicates  of  his 
letters  by  a  special  messenger  at  his  own  expense." 
The  same  orders  were  then  given  to  Penn.  And  in  the 
vehement  spirit  of  those  times  both  were  threatened 
\\dth  the  loss  of  their  charters  by  a  Parliamentary- 
inquiry  into  the  nature  of  their  rights  and  the  rectitude 
of  their  administrations.^^  Yet  these  orders  were  un- 
happily transmitted  too  late  to  preserve  Maryland  from 


16  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

the  miseries  of  anarchy,  the  proprietary  government 
from  destruction,  and  his  private  rights  from  invasion. 
As  usual  in  times  of  Iiigh  passion  the  length  of  delay 
added  proportionably  to  the  anxieties  of  the  people ; 
whose  minds  were  extremely  inflamed  by  the  repetition 
of  stories  which  had  been  often  proved  groundless,  and 
which  were  again  believed,  because  they  were  repeated. 
The  various  endeavours  of  the  governors  to  silence  clam- 
our and  to  preserve  peace  were  turned  ag-ainst  themselves 
by  the  arts  of  their  opponents,  because  during  the  season 
of  discontent  the  multitude  readily  believe  whatsoever 
is  reported  of  their  rulers.  Various  insurrections  broke 
out  in  Maryland  during  July,  1689.  And  John  Coode, 
a  man  of  abandoned  principles,  who  had  been  formerly 
prosecuted  for  seditious  practices,  marched  with  seven 
hundred  men  to  St.  Mary's,  the  capital,  and  easily 
seized  the  State-house ;  since  a  guard  of  a  hundred  men, 
commanded  hy^  Colonel  Digges,  refused  to  defend  it, 
because  they  were  animated  by  the  same  spirit.  The 
Governors  endeavored  in  vain  to  raise  the  militia,  who 
considered  the  insurgents  as  friends  whose  intentions 
were  to  preserve  the  country  from  the  savages  and 
papists  and  to  proclaim  the  King,  rather  than  as  ene- 
mies to  be  feared.  Observing  how  much  the  minds 
of  all  were  terrified  with  an  apprehension  of  the  In- 
dians, they  offered  to  appoint  Colonel  Jowles,  now  the 
second  in  command  to  Coode,  general  of  the  militia. 
They  offered  a  pardon  to  those  now  in  arms  on  condition 
of  their  returning  peaceably  to  their  private  affairs. 

But  they  soon  found  what  James  bad  sadly  experi- 
enced in  England,  that  when  the  confidence  of  subjects 
is  withdrawn  a  fallino-  o-overnment  meets  with  few 
supporters.  Jowles  declined  a  command  which  he  per- 
ceived was  not  offered  from  good  will,  and  which  he 
already  possessed  from  a  very  different  title :  The  people 
were  persuaded  to  regard  the  offered  pardon  as  an 
insult  rather  than  a  favour,  because  it  supposed  that  they 
had  committed  a  crime.  With  an  alacrity  that  during 
insurrection  is  always  decisive,  Coode  marched  against 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  17 

Mattapany-house,  which  the  governors  possessed  with  a 
small  garrison  :  And  refusing  all  personal  conference  in 
the  hearing  of  his  army,  because  he  foresaw  that  it 
might  make  an  impression  on  the  multitude,  often  prone 
to  pity  the  unfortunate,  he  compelled  them  on  the  1st 
of  August,  1689,  to  accept  the  terms  dictated  by  him- 
self: He  promised  them  security  for  their  estates,  and 
protection  for  their  persons ;  which  however  were  after- 
wards little  regarded,  because  men  who  depart  from 
strict  duty  in  their  zeal  for  innovation  generally  prove 
faithless.  ^^ 

Having  obtained  the  object  of  their  wishes,  the 
leaders  of  the  insurgents  assumed  the  reins  of  govern- 
ment which  they  had  thus  snatched  from  the  hands  of 
the  Proprietary  deputies.  They  immediately  published 
a  declaration  of  the  reasons  for  this  conduct,  because 
they  were  conscious  that  it  would  appear  extraordinary 
to  the  neighboring  Colonies :  This  paper  was  plainly 
drawn  by  the  hand  of  party,  and  contains  among  a 
great  variety  of  motives  two  which  in  the  present  times 
must  appear  very  singular ;  that  it  had  been  held 
criminal  to  assert  the  Sovereignty  of  England  over  this 
province  ;  that  the  ill-usage  offered  to  the  King's  officers 
of  his  Customs  shewed  the  bad  designs  of  the  govern- 
ment. A  convention  of  the  freemen  was  assembled  on 
the  24th  August,  1689,  notwithstanding  several  of  the 
counties  refused  to  send  deputies,  because  they  disap- 
proved of  the  measure.  It  however  immediately  ordered 
the  names  of  William  and  Mary  to  be  used  in  all  future 
public  proceedings  instead  of  that  of  Lord  Baltimore, 
whom  it  now  deposed,  because  it  deemed  him  no  more 
entitled  to  obedience.  It  appointed  naval  officers  for 
the  collection  of  the  usual  revenue.  And  it  levied  ten 
thousand  pounds  of  tobacco,  which  were  given  to  the 
soldiers  as  a  reward  for  their  late  services  in  effecting 
the  revolution.  While  bounty  was  thus  conferred  on 
friends,  punishments  were  inflicted  on  opponents.  And 
many  were  imprisoned,  notwithstanding  the  late  capitu- 
lation, for  no  other  reason,  it  should  seem,  than  that 
2 


18  THE    CONTmUATION    OF 

they  did  not  approve  of  the  present  system  of  govern- 
ment. Forgetting  that  all  its  present  importance  and 
power  were  procured  chiefly  by  practising  on  the  credu- 
lity of  the  multitude,  it  now  complained  bitterly  of 
malicious  reports ;  so  apt  are  men  to  condemn  the  same 
arts  in  others  which  themselves  have  used.  Having 
appointed  a  Committee  of  Secrecy,  it  proceeded  with 
the  accustomed  unfairness  of  all  partial  inquiries  to 
establish  the  truth  of  a  popish-plot,  which  never  existed 
but  in  the  stories  of  the  factious ;  in  order  to  inflict  a 
mortal  Avound  on  the  proprietary  government:  Thus 
like  the  zealots  of  England  with  regard  to  the  birth  of  a 
son  to  James,  placing  the  Revolution,  which  they  had 
achieved  in  favour  of  the  Sovereignty  of  England  and  the 
protestant  religion,  that  ought  to  have  been  founded  on 
the  natural  and  social  rights  of  men,  on  a  basis  which 
disgraced  it,  because  it  was  false  and  unstable.  It  is 
remarkable,  that  there  was  neither  evidence  nor  resolve 
to  evince  that  the  Deputy  Grovernors  had  received  the 
orders  of  the  Privy  Council  for  the  proclamation  of 
William  and  Mary  ;  though  the  proof  of  this  fact,  by 
fixing  on  the  objects  of  their  hate  the  guilt  of  high 
treason,  would  have  at  once  ruined  them,  brought  on 
the  forfeiture  of  the  charter,  and  justified  the  conduct 
of  the  insurgents  in  the  eyes  of  the  world  and  in  notion 
of  law.  But  this  important  circumstance  is  not  mention- 
ed, because  it  did  not  exist  and  the  use  to  which  it 
might  have  been  applied  seems  not  to  have  occurred : 
The  leaders  of  the  Revolution  had  suflicient  inclination 
but  were  destitute  of  talents.  The  convention  trans- 
mitted loyal  addresses  to  William ;  congratulating  his 
accession  and  begging  for  approba,tion  and  favour.  It 
communicated  to  the  neighboring  colonies  the  reasons 
of  its  late  conduct,  and  solicited  mutual  friendship. 
And  it  appointed  Coode,  who  possessed  nothing  to 
recommend  him  but  his  zeal,  commander-in-chief  of  the 
province,  as  a  reward  for  his  forward  services.  ^"^  In- 
formation of  all  these  interesting  transactions  reached 
London  in  December,  1689.     The  lords  of  the  Com- 


CHALMERS  S    POLITICAL   ANNALS.  19 

mittee  of  plantations,  after  perusing  the  letters  trans- 
mitted to  Lord  Baltimore,  and  the  addresses  of  the 
Convention,  approved  of  the  conduct  of  those  who  had 
seized  the  government  and  proclaimed  the  King  and 
advised  that  they  should  be  directed  to  continue  the 
administration  in  the  King's  name  till  the  royal  pleasure 
should  be  known.  William  approved  of  an  advice  so 
consistent  with  his  temper  and  his  views.^^  But  he 
lived  to  experience  mortifications  and  anxieties,  which 
probably  made  him  regret,  that  he  had  disturbed  the 
reigns  of  his  two  predecessors,  though  to  gain  a  crown, 
that  he  now  countenanced  proceedings  which  deprived 
an  individual  of  his  rights  and  offered  a  dangerous 
example  to  posterity,  though  to  acquire  the  government 
of  a  province. 

Actuated  by  that  laudable  spirit  of  peace,  which  is 
so  respectable  even  when  productive  of  inconvenience, 
and  animated  by  the  principles  of  William  Penn,  whose 
attachments  to  the  late  King  are  sufficiently  known,  the 
Pennsylvanians  continued  the  administration  in  the 
name  of  James  long  after  his  power  had  vanished.  And 
the  consequences  either  good  or  evil,  which  resulted  from 
this  circumstance  were  so  little  felt  or  resented  in  Eng- 
land, that  history  and  records  are  silent  with  regard  to 
the  precise  time  when  the  kingship  of  William  and 
Mary  was  first  recognized  in  Pennsylvania.-^  Yet  the 
proclamation  of  these  monarchs  was  of  more  real 
importance  here  than  in  Maryland.  The  charter  of  the 
former  had  not  established  a  palatinate  and  thereby 
invested  its  proprietary  with  royal  rights :  That  of  the 
latter  had  conferred  the  honour  of  both.  In  the  first  the 
powers  of  government  had  been  executed  from  the 
beginning  in  the  name  of  the  King  :  In  the  other  the 
appellation  of  Baltimore  was  substituted  for  that  of  the 
Sovereign  in  all  public  proceedings.  In  Maryland 
therefore  the  proclamation  of  William  and  Mary  would 
have  had  no  other  perceivable  effect  than  to  give  notice 
to  the  people  with  regard  to  whom  they  owed  their 
allegiance  :  And  no  provincial  commissions  were  vacated 


20  THE    CONTmUATION    OF 

by  the  demise  of  the  Crown,  hecanse  they  had  not 
derived  their  existence  or  vigour  from  the  royal  authority. 
The  peaceful  prudence  of  Pennsylvania  prevented  those 
animosities  which  the  revolution  of  Maryland  long  en- 
tailed on  her,  and  saved  a  waste  of  treasure  that  she 
long  felt,  and  complained  of  And  while  the  one 
province  was  sunk  into  that  lifeless  state  of  inaction, 
which  necessarily  results  from  great  public  convulsions, 
the  other  extended  her  commerce,  encouraged  domestic 
industry,  and  engaged  in  every  pursuit,  which  tends  to 
make  a  country  wealthy  and  great. 

If  from  a  colony  remarkable  for  quietude  we  turn 
our  attention  to  one  generally  noted  for  turbulence  we 
shall  perceive  the  successful  result  of  projects  deeply 
laid  and  ably  conducted.  Mather  and  other  agents  who 
had  appeared  in  England  in  the  beginning  of  the  year 
1688,  and  who  agreeably  to  instructions  requiring  them 
"  to  take  advantage  of  times  and  of  circumstances  for 
the  good  of  New  England,"  had  derived  every  benefit 
from  the  infatuation  or  favour  of  James  2d,  beheld  now 
with  satisfaction  the  approach  of  the  prince  of  Orange 
in  October,  1688  :  They  rejoiced  in  proportion  as  they 
saw  that  their  beloved  Massachusetts  must  gain  what- 
ever might  be  the  event  of  his  expedition.  When  the 
friendly  admonitions  of  Lewis  14  at  length  roused 
James  from  the  dream  of  security  into  which  he  had 
been  lulled  by  the  insidious  counsels  of  Sunderland,  he 
gave  notice  of  the  intended  invasion  to  Andros,  the 
governor,  by  a  circular  letter,  of  the  1 6th  of  October :  ^^ 
Requiring  him  in  a  magnanimity  of  language,  which 
his  future  conduct  shewed  he  was  unable  to  support,  to 
repel  the  invaders  of  the  extensive  dominion  committed 
to  his  charge.  By  the  same  opportunity  the  agents  not 
only  transmitted  the  result  of  their  solicitations,  but 
informed  their  friends  of  what  they  saw  and  heard ;  and 
warned  them  to  prepare  the  minds  of  the  people  for  an 
interestino-  chano-e.  The  vessel  which  carried  all  these 
different  dispatches  arrived  at  Boston  in  the  beginning 
of  January,  1689.-^     Unrestrained  by  winter  severities 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  21 

from  defending  his  province  against  the  dangerous  in- 
cursions of  the  Indians,  Andros  was  then  at  Pemaquid 
on  the  extremity  of  the  Eastern  frontier,  performing  all 
the  duties  of  a  vigilant  officer.  In  pursuance  of  his 
orders  he  issued  on  the  10th  of  January  a  declaration; 
reciting  the  commands  of  his  Sovereign,  requiring  "  all 
persons  to  be  vigilant  upon  the  approach  of  any  fleet  or 
foreign  force  and  to  prevent  an  invasion."  ^  But  he 
gave  commands  in  vain  to  men,  whose  minds  had  been 
long  alienated  equally  from  their  Sovereign  and  his 
representative  whom  they  abhorred  as  the  author  of 
their  ills,  and  Avhose  zeal  would  have  prompted  them  to 
receive  those  proscribed  invaders  with  acclamations  as 
allies,  rather  than  with  enmity  as  foes.  In  conformity 
to  the  suggestions  of  the  agents,  a  variety  of  rumours 
were  scattered  among  the  vulgar:  Now,  that  King 
James  had  fled  to  France  and  there  died  of  vexation. 
Anon,  that  the  Prince  and  Princess  of  Orange  had  been 
proclaimed  King  and  Queen  of  England."^  And  Andros 
unsuspicious  that  the  train  was  laid  to  the  mine  which 
was  so  soon  to  blow  his  government  in  air,  remained 
meantime  at  Pemaquid  till  towards  the  end  of  March ; 
when  he  returned  to  Boston,  in  consequence  of  the 
reports  that  had  reached  him  :  Leaving  the  frontiers  in 
a  respectable  state  of  defence.^*^ 

Meanwhile,  the  Prince  of  Orange  with  a  view  "  to 
preserve  the  peace  of  New  England  to  prevent  the 
inconveniences  that  might  otherwise  arise,"  wrote  to 
that  governor  on  the  12th  of  January,  1689  ;  command- 
ing that  "  all  persons  then  lawfully  possessed  of  any  office 
shall  continue  as  formerly ;  that  all  orders  lately  given 
by  legal  authority  shall  be  fully  obeyed  till  further 
directions."  Mather  and  the  other  agents,  saw  and 
dreaded  the  consequences  of  this  prudent  measure,  which 
appeared  so  fatal  to  their  schemes  ;  and  they  hastened 
to  prevent  the  transmission  of  an  order,  that  would  have 
involved  their  constituents  in  considerable  difficulty ; 
because  it  had  reduced  them  to  the  dilemma  of  either 
submitting  for  a  few  months  longer  to  the  government 


22  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

of  Andros,  or  of  overturning  his  authority  though  sup- 
ported by  the  Prince.  Accordingly  "  upon  the  applica- 
tion of  Sir  William  Phips  and  Mr.  Mather  the  letter 
was  countermanded."  ^^  To  these  men's  interested  in- 
trigues New  England  owed  much  of  the  misery  which 
soon  after  ensued :  To  them  were  m  a  great  measure  to 
be  attributed  the  Indian  irruptions  that  followed,  the 
blood  which  was  spilt  and  the  devastation  of  the 
country  ;  because  the  leaders  of  the  insurgents  disbanded 
the  army  which  Andros  had  wisely  placed  for  its 
defence.  The  instant  the  new  King  and  Queen  were 
placed  on  the  throne  the  Committee  of  plantations  pre- 
pared a  letter  for  the  governors  of  the  several  colonies ; 
directing  them  to  proclaim  their  new  Sovereigns  and  to 
continue  all  officers  till  further  orders. 

William  approved  of  all  except  only  of  that  for 
New  England;  the  further  consideration  of  which  he 
postponed  till  the  business  of  taking  away  the  charters 
should  be  considered."  ^^  Encouraged  by  these  successes 
and  by  the  favor  of  Mary,  which  had  been  dexterously 
gained  before  her  departure  from  Holland,^®  Phips 
and  Mather  presented  a  petition  on  the  20th  Feb- 
ruary;  praying  "that  the  colonies  of  Massachusetts, 
New  Pljanoutli,  Coimecticut,  and  Rhode  Island  may 
have  their  charters  restored ;  that  their  magistrates  may 
be  permitted  to  take  upon  them  the  government  as 
formerly.*"  ^°  But  the  committee  of  plantations  to  whom 
this  application  was  referred,  having  heard  as  well  the 
agents  by  their  counsel  as  Sawyer  the  late  attorney- 
general,  who  had  been  ordered  to  give  an  account  of  the 
cancellation  of  the  charters,  reported  two  days  there- 
after ;  that  a  governor  should  be  forthwith  sent  to  New 
England  in  the  room  of  Andros,  with  a  provisional 
commission  and  with  instructions  to  proclaim  the  King 
and  Queen ;  that  such  a  further  and  lasting  establish- 
ment should  be  prepared  for  it  as  shall  preserve  the 
privileges  of  the  people  and  such  a  dependence  on  the 
Crown  as  shall  be  thought  requisite."  Actuated  how- 
ever by  secret  influence  which  arose  from  causes  that 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  23 

may  be  easily  guessed  though  they  cannot  be  clearly 
developed,  William  disregarded  the  salutary  advice  of 
his  ministers  and  in  a  few  days  commanded:  That 
instead  of  a  governor  two  Commissioners  shall  be  ap- 
pointed to  take  upon  them  the  administration ;  that  the 
Committee  should  j^repare  a  new  Charter  in  conformity 
to  the  before  mentioned  advice.'^^  Yet,  as  this  measure 
was  contrary  to  the  opinion  of  the  Committee,  as  it  was 
not  pressed  by  the  agents,  because  it  was  inconsistent 
with  their  views,  and  had  probably  been  suggested  by 
them  to  defeat  the  intention  of  the  ministers,  no  Com- 
missioners were  sent:  As  the  desire  of  their  petition 
was  not  literally  granted  or  rather  refused,  the  Agents 
gained  time  for  their  other  projects  to  ripen  to  maturity. 
And  we  shall  find  that  the  adjustment  of  the  terms  of  a 
new  charter  was  the  work  of  considerable  labour,  diffi- 
culty and  intrigue.  Phips  soon  after  sailed  for  Boston 
to  give  an  account  of  all  these  negotiations  and  to  sug- 
gest future  measures. 

While  these  transactions  passed  in  England,  the 
seeds  of  innovation  had  been  sown  in  Massachusetts 
with  a  liberal  hand.  As  vessels  frequently  sailed  from 
Holland  directly  to  Boston  during  the  winter,  the  lead- 
ing men  received  regular  notice  from  their  correspond- 
ents of  every  event  in  Europe.  ^^  And  they  circulated 
their  informations  on  their  fictions  as  best  suited  the 
conjuncture  and  their  views.  Being  at  length  assured 
of  the  rapid  tide  of  success  which  had  run  in  favour  of 
the  Prince  of  Orange  and  the  minds  of  all  being  now 
wound  up  to  a  painful  state  of  anxiety,  the  spark  which 
had  been  so  carefully  fanned  blazed  out  into  insurrection 
on  the  18th  of  April,  1689.  The  men  who  deemed  it  a 
duty  to  follow  the  patterns  which  had  been  set  them  in 
England,  demanded  the  fortresses  and  the  government 
of  Andros  in  language  which  admitted  of  no  denial ; 
that  both  might  be  disposed  of,  "  according  to  directions 
from  the  Crown  of  England."  As  in  Maryland  tJiere 
was  here  no  formal  Capitulation  and  he  submitted  to  a 
force  that  he  perceived  it  was  to  no  purpose  to  resist 


24  THE   CONTINUATION    OF 

Though  "  promised  all  security  from  violence  to  himself 
or  any  of  his  gentlemen  or  soldiers,  in  person  or  estate," 
they  were  all  imprisoned ;  though  they  offered  bail,  the 
distinguishing  privilege  of  Englishmen,  they  were  detain- 
ed in  rigorous  confinement,  till  relieved  by  the  command 
of  William,  in  the  beginning  of  the  subsequent  year,^^ 
because  the  spirit  of  insurrection  is  always  jealous  and 
severe.  The  government  of  Andros  being  thus  over- 
whelmed and  a  royal  frigate  and  the  forts  secured,  the 
helm  was  seized  by  those  who  liad  chiefly  raised  the 
storm,  under  the  famous  name  of  "a  Council  of  safety." 
But  William  and  Mary  were  not  proclaimed.  Though 
their  names  had  been  borrowed  to  delude  the  vulgar  of 
every  denomination,  their  interests  were  now  little 
regarded  by  any,  because  the  Revolution  at  Boston  was 
achieved  with  very  different  intentions  than  had  been 
that  of  England  :  The  acquisition  of  power  was  the  great 
object  of  both  ;  the  one  however  was  to  obtain  independ- 
ence, the  other  a  Crown.  The  Council  soon  requested 
an  assembly  to  meet  in  the  subsequent  May.  But 
during  this  anxious  interval  the  people  were  distracted 
by  altercations  with  regard  to  the  nature  of  the  ad- 
ministration which  should  be  then  adopted.  Zealots 
clamoured  for  a  resumption  of  their  ancient  form :  The 
moderate  insisted  "  that  things  should  continue  as  they 
were  till  they  received  directions  from  the  King  and 
Queen  of  England."  Influenced,  however,  by  their 
ministers,  ever  prone  to  violent  counsels,  the  great  body 
of  the  people  instructed  their  representatives  in  favour 
of  the  former  project.  And  when  the  Delegates  con- 
vened on  the  24th  of  May,  they  therefore  resolved,  "to 
settle  a  government  according  to  cliarter-rights  and  to 
patent-privileges." 

In  support  of  this  important  determination  they 
reasoned :  That  since  there  is  a  necessity  for  civil  gov- 
ernment, without  which  they  could  not  enjoy  safety  or 
peace,  since  the  method  of  settlement  lieth  wholly  at 
this  conjuncture  in  the  voice  of  the  people,  the  reestab- 
lishment  of  that  civil  jurisdiction,  which  in  former  days 


CHALMERS  S    POLITICAL     AlSlfALS.  Z5 

they  had  rejoiced  in,  was  correspondent  to  the  noble 
undertaking  of  the  prince  of  Orange  in  the  late  settle- 
ment of  affairs  in  the  renowned  English  Nation. 
Agreeably  to  those  independent  views  they  declared  the 
aged  Brad  street  governor,  the  experienced  Danforth, 
Deputy  governor,  and  those  persons  assistants,  who  had 
been  chosen  in  the  year  1686,  under  their  pristine  con- 
stitution ;  requesting  them  to  take  the  present  care  of 
the  people,  according  to  ancient  custom ;  And  it  was 
finally  resolved  that  this  method  of  government  shall  be 
found  among  them  when  orders  should  arrive  from  the 
higher  powers  in  England.^  In  this  concluding  resolve 
we  at  length  perceive  the  real  designs  of  the  Agents : 
That  there  might  be  no  obstacle  to  the  favourite  object 
of  their  hearts  they  had  carefully  prevented  the  trans- 
mission of  the  orders  of  the  Prince  to  Andros,  and  of 
that  oificial  notice  of  the  demise  of  the  Crown,  which  it 
was  the  duty  of  the  privy  council  to  announce  to  every 
province  of  the  Empire. 

The  convention  on  the  20tli  of  May  framed  an 
Address  to  William,  which  exhibits  a  fine  picture  of  its 
embarrassments  between  its  principles  of  independence 
on  the  one  hand,  and  its  dread  of  dependence  on  Eng- 
land, "  to  which  it  stood  so  nearly  related,"  and  its  fear 
of  offending  the  higher  powers,  on  the  other :  The 
address  gives  an  account  of  the  steps  that  had  been 
pursued  to  accomplish  the  revolution ;  it  speaks  to  that 
monarch  botli  as  Prince  of  Orange  and  as  sovereign  of 
England :  And  it  is  silent  with  regard  to  his  proclama- 
tion in  Massachusetts.^^  A  vessel  which  arrived  from 
England  on  the  26th  of  May,  brought  a  full  confirma- 
tion of  the  final  settlement  of  the  affairs  of  that  Nation. 
And  now  the  insurgents  perceived  their  hopes  of  the 
establishment  of  a  commonwealth  wholly  cut  off,  which 
they  lamented  in  proportion  to  the  vehemence  of  their 
zeal,  because  they  had  been  taught  to  believe  that  the 
v^^ews  of  the  prince  of  Orange  had  been  the  same  with 
their  own,  yet  William  and  Mary  were  not  even  now 
proclaimed.     Three  days  thereafter  Sir  William  Phipps 


26  THE    CONTINUATION   OF 

at  length  arrived  at  Boston. ^^  He  gave  complete  in- 
formation of  the  zealous  proceedings  of  the  agents  for 
the  service  of  their  country.  "While  he  destroyed  the 
little  hope  which  was  still  fondly  entertained  by  some, 
because  "  the  first  intelligence  induced  them  to  expect  a 
reestablishment  of  government  in  the  old  form,"  he 
convinced  them  of  the  necessity  of  making  their  senti- 
ments of  freedom  bend  to  the  circumstances  of  the  times, 
since  their  future  favour  and  expectations  from  England 
depended  entirely  on  their  declaring  explicitly  for  the 
Revolution  by  formally  proclaiming  the  King  and  Queen 
without  further  delay.  On  the  same  day  the  proclama- 
tion was  accordingly  made  in  Boston,  with  more  than 
usual  ceremony. ^^  And  the  unconcerned  remarked; 
that  the  present  affectation  of  joy  and  pomp  were  in 
proportion  to  the  disappointment  of  their  late  hopes, 
and  of  their  expectation  of  events  to  come.  The  general 
Court  again  convened,  after  a  new  choice  of  Delegates 
on  the  5th  of  July,  1689.  And  it  was  resolved  once 
more ;  that  affairs  should  be  conducted  "  according  to 
the  charter,  till  orders  should  be  received  from  England." 
Two  days  after  it  voted  an  address  to  William  and 
Mary  ;  congratulating  their  accession  ;  informing  them 
of  their  joyful  proclamation  ;  and  praying  for  a  restora- 
tion of  the  ancient  government.  The  felicitations,  as 
well  of  the  late  convention,  as  of  the  present  general 
Court,  were  jjresented  to  those  monarchs  in  the  subse- 
quent August :  And  as  the  defects  of  the  former  were 
overlooked  during  their  attention  to  the  compliments 
of  the  latter,  they  were  received  with  more  than  common 
expressions  of  grace. ^*  Men  of  discernment  however 
observed  that  William  by  his  inattention  to  essential 
irregularities  of  conduct  gave  countenance  to  a  spirit 
that  sapped  the  foundations  of  the  throne  on  which  he 
then  sat.  Orders  were  instantly  given  "for  a  letter  to 
be  sent  to  the  government  of  Boston:  signifying  the 
royal  approbation  of  their  7'eadines8  to  proclaim  tlje 
King  and  Queen ;  and  empowering  those  now  in  power 
to  continue  the  administration  in  their  names  till  orders 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  27 

should  be  given  for  the  settlement  of  government. "^^ 
But  tidings  of  the  Revolution  at  Boston  had  in  the 
meantime  reached  London.  Ensign  Bigg,  a  special 
messenger,  had  arrived  on  the  16th  of  July  with  Dis- 
patches from  Lieutenant-Governor  Nicholson,  at  New 
York  ;  informing  the  Lords  of  the  Committee  of  planta- 
tions of  the  imprisonment  of  Andros,  and  of  the  dis- 
banding of  the  troops.  Various  petitions  were  immedi- 
ately presented  on  behalf  of  the  prisoners.  And  on  the 
29th  of  July,  a  royal  letter  was  transmitted  to  Boston  ; 
commanding  that  they  should  be  sent  to  England  to 
answer  what  might  be  objected  against  them.^"  The 
Commissioners  of  the  Customs  having  soon  after  repre- 
sented to  the  Committee  the  irregularities  of  the  trade 
of  New  England,  a  royal  mandate  was  sent  thither,  "  to 
admonish  all  to  observe  the  acts  of  navigation."  *^  The 
former  was  obeyed  after  some  delay,  because  it  gratified 
the  spleen  of  the  people :  the  latter  was  disregarded 
because  it  did  not  their  interest. 

Meanwhile  the  new  rulers  at  Boston  distracting 
their  own  authority,  though  it  had  been  conferred  by 
the  people,  guided  the  helm  committed  to  their  charge 
with  feeble  and  unsteady  hands.  Their  authority  was 
impugned  and  derided,  because  it  was  perceived  that 
they  doubted  their  own  powers.  And  crimes  of  every 
kind,  which  never  fail  to  result  from  public  commotions 
prevailed  to  so  great  a  degree,  that  they  at  length 
thought  it  necessary  "to  draw  the  sword  of  justice 
against  them."  Bradstreet,  the  governor,  apologized 
for  this  conduct  in  lan2;uao;e  which  shewed  how  much 
he  feared  giving  "  offence  to  his  Majesty."  ^^  Yet  rigid 
moralists,  who  doubted  the  authority  of  human  judica- 
tories to  put  fellow-men  to  death,  exclaimed;  that  the 
execution  of  criminals  by  a  jurisdiction  so  extremely 
questionable  could  be  considered  only  as  legal  murders. 
When  the  royal  letter  before  mentioned  arrived  at 
Boston,  on  the  4th  of  December,  1089,  the  governoi 
and  council  considered  it,  as  an  explicit  confirmation  of 
their  authority,  and   endeavored  by  a  pious  trick  ^^  to 


28  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

give  it  the  force  of  a  charter  under  the  great  seal,  which 
the  multitude  had  been  so  often  taught  to  expect,  as 
the  ultimate  reward  of  their  own  violence  and  of  their 
agents'  intrigues.  The  domestic  troubles  being  at  length 
calmed  the  colony  continued  to  be  ruled  "according  to 
ancient  forms,"  till  the  arrival  of  a  new  Charter  some 
years  after. 

The  other  plantations  of  New  England  had  long 
regarded  Massachusetts  as  a  pattern  on  all  difficult 
emergencies,  because  she  was  considered  as  the  most 
powerful,  perhaps  as  the  most  sanctified.  As  the  insig- 
nificant province  of  New  Hampshire  had  never  enjoyed 
the  pleasures  of  a  formal  patent,  she  in  some  measure 
sheltered  herself  under  the  wings  of  her  potent  neigh- 
bour and  waited  patiently  for  the  decision  of  her  fate 
from  England.  New  Plvmouth,  Rhode  Island  and 
Connecticut,  considering  the  imprisonment  of  Andros 
as  an  emancipation  from  bondage,  instantly  reestablished 
their  ancient  governments,  because  they  were  urged  to 
this  measure  by  the  persuasions  of  the  leading  men  at 
Boston,  who  wished  for  the  countenance  of  numerous 
associates  in  the  same  cause.  Actuated  by  their  hopes 
of  future  benefit,  rather  than  by  attachment  to  their 
cause,  they  in  due  season  proclaimed  William  and  Mary 
and  transmitted  addresses  ;  professing  their  loyalty  and 
begging  for  approbation  of  their  conduct  and  confirma- 
tion of  their  patents.^ 

But  to  these  little  attention  was  paid,  because  no 
agents  interested  themselves  on  their  behalf  and  the 
objects  of  their  prayers  were  never  obtained,  since  they 
were  never  properly  asked.  Yet  still  anxious  with  re- 
gard to  the  validity  of  Charters  "svhich  they  insisted  had 
neither  been  formally  surrendered  nor  legally  taken 
away  Connecticut  and  Bhode  Island  consulted  Ward 
and  Treby  and  Somers,  who  concurred  in  opinion  "that 
such  a  submission  as  is  put  in  this  case  "  doth  not  inval- 
idate the  patents.^^  And  under  the  authority  of  the 
opinion  of  these  eminent  lawyers  they  enjoyed  them  to 
the  present  times,  though  not  without  a  variety  of  future 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  29 

attacks.  Inhabited  by  a  different  people,  who  were 
animated  by  very  dissimilar  principles,  New  York 
ardently  regretted  her  conjunction  with  New  England, 
because  she  felt  her  degradation,  and  she  had  unceas- 
ingly begged  for  disunion,  since  she  wished  to  enjoy  the 
pleasures  of  separate  government.  The  dissolution  of 
the  administration  of  Andros  confirmed  the  hopes  which 
the  invasion  of  the  Prince  of  Orange  had  raised,  and  all 
men  looked  forward  to  the  day  when  they  should  be 
disjoined  from  a  hated  rival  as  the  consummation  of 
their  happiness.  When  Lieutenant-governor  Nicholson  s 
dispatch  of  the  15th  of  Ma)^,  1689,  was  received  by  the 
ministers  of  England,  informing  them  of  the  revolution 
at  Boston,  and  of  what  he  dreaded  from  what  he  saw, 
the  royal  orders  were  transmitted  commanding  him,  or 
those  who  for  the  time  preserved  the  peace,  to  proclaim 
the  King  and  Queen,  and  to  continue  the  administration 
in  their  names.  But  before  these  were  received  the 
contagion  of  change  had  extended  its  unhappy  influence 
from  New  England  to  New  York  and  produced  similar 
innovations  though  on  principles  extremely  different. 
The  insurgents  of  the  latter  actuated  by  the  zeal  of 
partizans,  rather  than  by  the  interested  caution  of  the 
ambitious,  declared  at  once  for  the  Prince  of  Orange, 
seized  the  fort  in  his  name,  and  avowed  their  reso- 
lution to  hold  it  for  him  till  demanded  by  his  authority. 
Equally  attached  to  him  and  monarchy  the  people 
of  this  colony  differed  only  in  their  manner  of  shewing 
their  affections,  and  William  and  Mary  were  again  and 
again  proclaimed  with  every  demonstration  of  unfeigned 
joy.  Nevertheless  experience  seems  to  have  decided  in 
favour  of  the  sentiments  of  those,  who,  dreading  all 
popular  innovations,  because  genuine  freedom  is  but  too 
often  injured  by  them,  contended  for  waiting  in  qaiet 
till  official  orders  from  the  governors  of  England  for 
their  final  settlement  should  arrive.  New  York  long 
groaned  under  the  complicated  miseries  which  never 
fail  to  result  from  a  government  conducted  by  weakness, 
intemperance,  and  bigotry.*®     And  the  usurpations  of 


30  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

Leisler  and  of  the  rulers  of  Massachusetts  concluded  in 
a  manner  directly  the  reverse  of  each  other ;  the  one 
unhappily,  because  it  had  been  guided  by  the  hand  of 
folly ;  the  other  successfully,  because  it  had  been  con- 
ducted with  singular  talents  and  address. 

The  Jerseys  copied  the  peaceful  conduct  of  Penn- 
sylvania, because  they  were  inhabited  by  a  similar  peo- 
ple, rather  than  the  frantic  proceedings  of  New  York 
while  ruled  by  the  fanatic  Leisler ;  and  waited  in  tran- 
quillity the  decision  of  their  fate  from  the  government 
of  England.  As  the  Proprietors  of  East-Jersey  had 
formally  surrendered  their  powers  of  government  to 
James  2d,  as  the  greater  number  of  the  Proprietors 
of  both  the  Jerseys  were  attached  to  his  interests, 
because  they  were  Quakers,  they  hesitated  long  with 
regard  to  the  Course  they  should  follow.  From 
June,  1689,  to  August,  1692,  there  existed  in  these 
provinces  no  perceivable  administration.  And  Wil- 
liam and  Mary  were  not  proclaimed,  because  their 
enterprize  had  wounded  the  prejudices  of  the  people. ^^ 
Yet  if  their  singular  choice  has  afforded  fewer  materials 
for  history  than  the  extraordinary  exertions  of  their 
neighbours  they  were  not  divided  by  those  factions, 
which  long  embittered  the  spirit  and  distracted  the 
attention  of  the  others.  And  the  prudence  of  the  former 
for  some  years  profited  greatly  of  the  folly  of  the 
latter. 

Already  under  the  dominion  of  anarchy,  the  Caro- 
linians seem  to  have  little  regarded  the  intrigues  which 
placed  William  and  Mary  on  the  throne  and  transferred 
their  allegiance,  because  they  were  unsuitable  to  their 
views.  And  no  sooner  did  their  Proprietaries  transmit 
those  orders  and  proclamations  that  had  been  given 
them  in  charge  by  the  Privy  Council  than  their  new 
Sovereigns  were  announced  with  a  promptitude  and  joy, 
which  shewed  how  little  they  had  interested  themselves 
in  the  affairs  of  England.^^  Yet  as  the  officers  of  gov- 
ernment had  derived  their  authority  from  the  Proprie- 
taries in  whose  names  all  legal  proceedings  were  con- 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  31 

ducted  that  extraordinary  demise  of  the  Crown  made 
no  perceivable  change  in  Carolina. 

Of  all  the  English  Colonies,  Maryland  and  New 
York  alone  acknowledged  the  title  of  William  and  Mary 
by  express  laws.^^  When  in  after  times  the  Assemblies 
of  both  regularly  convened,  they  passed  "  acts  of  recogni- 
tion "  declaring :  "  That  their  majestys  were  and  of  right 
ought  to  be  by  the  laivs  of  the  realm  of  England^  their 
sovereign  liege  lord  and  lady,  King  and  Queen  of  Eng- 
land, and  the  Dominions  thereto  helonging.'"  That  conduct 
of  the  other  Colonies,  which  we  have  so  lately  reviewed, 
spoke  a  language  equally  explicit  and  decisive,  though 
without  the  compliment  of  legislative  acknowledgement. 
The  laws  of  England  then  gave  a  sovereign  lord  and 
lady  to  the  Colonists,  because  they  were  English  sub- 
jects :  Yet  no  assemblies  were  called  to  determine  on 
propriety  of  transferring  their  allegiance;  no  consent 
was  asked :  All  were  concluded  by  the  memorable  resolu- 
tions of  Parliament,  in  which  the  will  of  every  English- 
man was  then  supposed  to  be  contained.  For  in  the 
judgment  of  those  days,  and  of  those  Colonial  assemblies, 
the  moment  the  transmission  of  the  Crown  was  decided 
by  the  Sovereign  legislature  and  that  decision  was 
properly  made  known,  it  followed  by  necessary  inference 
that  in  judgment  of  law  William  and  Mary  "  became 
thereby  rightfully  invested  with  the  royal  dignity  and 
jurisdiction,"  within  the  various  territories  of  the 
Empire.  And  this  flowed  from  the  just  consideration, 
that  since  there  could  be  only  one  authority  in  the  state, 
invested  with  sufficient  power  to  determine  that  momen- 
tous question,  "  ivhether  James  had  relinquished  the 
goveriiment^^''  all  her  subordinate  dominions  must  be 
necessarily  concluded  by  its  resolution.  Yet  Ireland 
and  Massachusetts  of  all  the  English  provinces  either 
denied  the  wisdom  or  doubted  the  validity  of  the 
memorable  decision  before  mentioned.  The  former 
animated  by  the  presence  of  the  person  who  had  once 
held  the  scepter  of  Irish  monarchy,  declared  in  favour 
of  James  in  opposition  to  that  vote  of  abdication  which 


32  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

had  placed  William  and  Mary  on  his  throne,  and  con- 
tended with  arms  for  that  Independence  which  superior 
force  could  alone  establish.  The  latter  actuated  by 
similar  motives  resolved :  "  That  the  settlement  of  its 
affairs  lay  wholly  in  the  voice  of  its  people ;  *"  though  it 
incongruously  admitted  at  the  same  time  its  dependence 
on  England :  Never  reflecting  that  the  spirit  of  this 
Resolution  would  have  justified  those  men  to  continue 
themselves  subjects  of  James  to  choose  any  other  king, 
or  to  erect  a  sovereign  state.  And  the  convention  did 
establish  an  independent  commonwealth,  which  exerted 
every  act  of  sovereignty  from  the  18th  of  April  to  the 
29th  May,  1689.  What  the  supreme  legislature  enact- 
ed with  regard  to  the  Irish  Parliament,  men  of  rigid 
principles  applied  to  the  general  Court  of  Massachu- 
setts, during  that  short  period  of  independence :  "That 
it  was  an  unlawful  and  rebellious  assembly."  ^^  When 
we  reflect,  that  the  allegiance  of  the  Provincials  was 
changed ;  that  sovereigns,  who  were  intrusted  with  the 
whole  executive  power,  who  were  invested  with  a  sul> 
stantive  vote  in  the  legislature,  were  imposed  on  them, 
it  must  be  admitted,  that  the  Parliament  of  England, 
when  it  gave  them  a  King  and  Queen  exerted  the  high- 
est of  human  authority.  Yet  there  were  not  wanting 
wise  and  good  men  during  those  times,  who  mistaking 
the  quality  of  the  kingly  estate,  because  they  deemed 
it  something  divine,  rather  than  the  mere  creature 
of  social  laws,  and  therefore  like  all  rulers  of  society, 
subject  to  the  controul  of  the  legislature,  disputed  the 
sufficiency  of  Parliamentar}^  jurisdiction  to  establish 
that  most  important  change.  The  Revolution  however 
hath  ascertained  irrevocably  the  nature  of  the  constitu- 
tion and  the  extent  of  the  supreme  power  over  every 
territory  of  the  English  Empire. 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  33 


AUTHOKITIES  and  NOTES. 


'  The  misconduct  of  James  is  particularly  recited  in  the 
declaration  of  rights.  1  Wm.  &  Mary  2  Session  ch.  2.—''  The 
constitutional  principles  on  which  the  Revolution  was  origin- 
ally established  and  hath  since  been  defended  are  finely  explain- 
ed in  the  considerations  of  the  law  of  forfeiture,  p.  118-9, 
written  by  the  late  Charles  Yorke ;  which  every  Englishman 
should  not  only  read  but  study. 

'  On  the  same  day  that  the  Prince  of  Orange  took  leave  of 
the  states  of  Holland  at  the  Hague  James  2d  wrote  the  sub- 
joined circular  letter  to  the  governors  of  the  Colonies  ;  giving 
notice  of  the  intended  Dutch  invasion.  From  Yirg."  Ent.  4  v. 
p.  229.  It  ought  to  be  remembered  that  the  Secretary  who 
countersigned  this  memorable  dispatch  imparted  the  Secrets 
of  his  master  to  the  invader  of  his  kingdom. 

James  Eex 

Right  trusty  and  well  beloved  We  greet  you  well.  We 
have  received  undoubted  advice  that  a  great  and  sudden  inva- 
sion from  Holland  with  an  armed  force  of  foreigners  and 
strangers  will  speedily  be  made  in  a  hostile  manner  upon  this 
our  kingdom.  And  although  some  false  pretences  relating  to 
liberty,  property,  and  religion,  contrived  and  worded  with  art 
and  subtlety  maybe  given  out  (as  shall  be  thought  useful  upon 
such  an  attempt)  it  is  manifest  however  (considering  the  great 
preparations  that  are  making)  that  no  less  matter  is  intended 
and  by  this  invasion  is  proposed  than  an  absolute  conquest  of 
these  our  kingdoms  and  the  utter  subjecting  us  and  all  our 
people  to  a  foreign  power,  which  is  promoted  (as  we  under- 
stand although  it  may  seetn  almost  incredible)  by  some  of  our 
subjects,  being  persons  of  restless  and  wicked  spirits,  impla- 
cable malice  and  desperate  designs,  who  having  no  sense  of 
former  intestine  distractions,  the  memory  and  misery  whereof 
should  endear  and  put  a  value  upon  that  peace  and  happiness 
which  have  long  been  enjoyed,  nor  being  moved  by  our  reiter- 
ated acts  of  graceaud  mercy  wherein  we  studied  and  delight- 
ed to  abound  towards  all  our  subjects  and  even  towards  those 
who  were  once  our  avowed  and  open  enemies  do  again  endea- 
vour to  embroil  this  kingdom  in  blood  and  ruin  to  gratify  their 
3 


34  THE    CONTINUATION   OF 

own  ambition  and  malice,  proposing  to  themselves  a  pray  and 
booty  in  siicb  a  public  confasion  :  We  cannot  omit  to  make  it 
known  that  although  we  had  notice  sometime  since  that  a 
foreign  force  was  preparing  against  us,  yet  we  have  always 
declined  any  foreign  succours,  but  rather  have  chosen  (next 
under  God)  to  rely  upon  the  true  and  ancient  courage  faitli 
and  allegiance  of  our  own  people  with  whom  we  have  often 
ventured  our  life  i'or  the  honour  of  this  nation  and  in  whose 
defence  against  all  enemies  we  are  firmly  resolved  to  live  and 
die :  And  therefore  we  solemnly  conjure  our  subjects  to  lay 
aside  all  manner  of  animosity,  jealousies,  and  prejudices  and 
heartily  and  chearfully  to  unite  together  in  the  defence  of  us 
and  their  native  country,  which  thing  alone  will  (under  God) 
defeat  and  frustrate  the  principal  hope  and  design  of  our  ene- 
mies, wlio  expect  to  find  our  people  divided,  and  by  publish- 
ing perhaps  some  plausible  reasons  of  their  coming  hither  as  the 
specious  though  false  pretences  of  maintaining  the  protestant 
religion  or  asserting  the  liberty  and  property  of  our  people  do 
hope  thereby  to  conquer  this  great  and  renowned  kingdom. 
But  albeit  the  design  hath  been  carried  on  with  all  imaginable 
secrecy  and  endeavours  to  surprize  and  deceive  us  we  have  not 
been  wanting  on  our  part  to  make  such  provision  as  did  become 
us,  and  by  God's  blessing  we  make  no  doubt  of  being  found  in 
so  good  a  posture  that  our  enemies  may  have  cause  to  repent  such 
their  rash  and  unjust  attempt.  All  which  we  do  hereby  charge 
you  to  make  known  in  the  most  public  manner  to  our  loving 
subjects  within  our  plantation  under  your  government,  that 
they  may  be  the  better  prepared  to  resist  any  attempts  that 
may  be  made  by  our  enemies  in  those  parts  and  secured  in  their 
trade  and  commerce  with  this  kingdom.  To  which  end  you 
are  to  take  care  that  upon  the  approach  of  any  fleet  or  foreign 
force  the  militia  of  that  our  plantation  be  in  such  readiness  as 
to  hinder  any  landing  or  invasion  that  may  be  intended  to  be 
made  within  the  same.  And  further  we  do  require  you  to 
give  all  necessary  directions  that  the  ships  and  vessels  trading 
from  thence  do  either  put  themselves  under  convoy  or  sail  in 
such  number  and  fleets  and  take  such  other  precautions  as 
may  best  prevent  their  falling  into  the  hands  of  our  enemies 
until  you  shall  receive  further  information  from  us  of  their 
proceedings  with  such  assistance  by  ships  or  otherwise  as  upon 
occasion  we  shall  find  requisite  for  the  safety  and  protection 
of  our  subjects  under  your  government.  And  so  not  doubting 
of  your  care  in  all  things  relating  to  our  service  herein  we  bid 
you  heartily  farewell.  From  our  court  at  Wliitehall  the  ICth 
of  October  1688. — By  his  majesty's  command 

SuiJDERLAND. 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  35 

Eemark  :  It  was  afterwards  made  the  chief  charge  against 
Andros  the  governor  of  New  England  by  the  agents  of  this 
colony  that  ho  had  published  this  formal  dispatch. 

'  1  Win.  &  M.  2d  Sess.  ch.  2.—^  Lei.  hist.  4  v.  235-6.—°  See 
the  collection  of  proclamations  during  the  reign  of  William. — 
'  Lei.  hist.  4  V.  p.  243.— 'lb.  260-3.—^  1  Wm.  &  M.  2  S.ch.  9. 

'"  The  Conrts  of  Justice  in  "Westminster  hall  take  judi- 
cial knowledge  of  what  king  reigns  over  them  without  for- 
mal information  of  the  decease  of  the  person  of  the  prince. 
Lord  Raymond's  Reports,  2  v.  p.  811.  But  the  law  of  England 
with  peculiar  good  sense  adopting  it  as  a  maxim  "  that  no  one 
shall  be  obliged  to  take  notice  when  it  is  impossible  to  do  so," 
obliges  no  officers  of  distant  provinces  to  know  anything  of  the 
demise  of  the  crown  but  what  is  communicated  by  official  in- 
telligence. And-  nothing  is  legal  notice  of  an  event  so  inter- 
esting but  a  proclamation  of  the  accession  of  a  new  sovereign, 
which  constitutes  the  demise,  signed  by  the  Privy  Council  and 
transmitted  by  the  Secretary  of  State.  For  those  great  min- 
isters are  responsible  to  the  nation  for  any  accident  or  negli- 
gence, because  they  are  intrusted.  And  length  of  continued 
practice  has  confirmed  the  validity  of  this  reasoning.  Though 
we  are  informed  "  that  Hamilton  was  sent  to  summon  Tyrcon- 
nel  to  submit  to  the  present  administration,"  yet  it  does  not 
appear  that  such  notice  as  the  law  required  had  been  trans- 
mitted to  the  Lieutenant  of  Ireland  at  the  arrival  of  the  late 
king.  Had  Tyrconnel,  directed  only  by  general  report,  pro- 
claimed William  andMary,  his  forwardness  had  been  extreme- 
ly acceptable  and  probably  met  with  reward.  But  as  he 
adhered  to  the  interests  of  his  late  master  there  was  no  acces- 
sion in  Ireland,  it  should  seem,  and  consequently  there  could 
be  no  demise  of  the  crown  long  after  these  happy  events  had 
taken  place  in  England.  For  as  demise  necessarily  imports 
transfer  it  is  not  the  decease  of  the  natural  body  alone  which 
constitutes  the  transmission  of  the  regal  office  :  And  the  Rev- 
olution offers  a  remarkable  example  that  there  may  be  a  trans- 
fer of  the  kingdom  without  the  death  of  the  royal  person. 
Had  the  war  of  Ireland  ended  differently,  discussions  of  great 
nicety  might  have  arisen  in  a  country  governed  by  rigid  law, 
with  regard  to  the  exact  point  of  time  when  the  allegiance  of 
the  people  of  Ireland  was  transferred  from  James  their  late  to 
AVilliam  and  Mary  their  new  sovereigns. — "  1  Wm.  &  M.  2 
Sess.  ch.  9. 

"  Journ.  Plant.  Off.  6  v.  p.  187-8.—''  The  following  circu- 
lar letter  from  William  to  the  Governors  of  the  Colonies  will 
show  with  what  anxiety  he  regarded  their  quiet  and  his  own 
interest.     From  Virg."  Ent.  4  v.  p.  233. 

1128415 


36  iHL    CONTINUATION   OF 

William  Henry  by  the  grace  of  God  Prince  of  Oi-ange  &c. 
Whereas  upon  onr  coming  into  this  kingdom,  the  Lords  spirit- 
ual aTid  temporal,  the  Knights,  Burgesses,  and  Citizens  hereto- 
fore members  of  the  Commons  house  of  Parliament  during  the 
reign  of  King  Charles  2d,  residing  in  and  about  London  and 
the  Aldermen  and  Members  of  the  Common  Council  of  the 
said  City  in  their  assembly  in  this  extraordinary  conjuncture 
have  by  their  respective  applications  desired  that  we  would 
take  upon  us  the  administration  of  public  affairs  both  civil  and 
military  and  the  disposal  of  the  public  revenne  for  the  preser- 
vation of  the  peace  and  for  other  good  ends  and  purposes  in 
their  said  application  mentioned ;  we  desiring  the  happy  state 
and  peace  of  this  nation  and  the  dominions  thereunto  belong- 
ing and  intending  to  promote  by  the  best  means  the  particular 
good  and  welfare  of  the  Colony  and  dominion  of  Virginia  and 
to  prevent  by  the  care  and  circumspection  of  the  officers  and 
Magistrates  in  that  government  the  inconveniences  that  other- 
wise may  arise ;  we  do  hereby  constitute  direct  and  appoint 
that  all  persons  not  being  Papists  who  at  the  receipt  of  these 
letters  shall  be  duly  and  lawfully  possessed  of  or  interested  in 
any  office  or  place  of  authority  or  government  civil  or  military 
within  that  colony  and  dominion  shall  be  and  hold  themselves 
continued  in  the  said  offices  or  places  under  the  same  condi- 
tions as  formerly  the^^  held  and  enjoyed  the  same  until  other 
orders  shall  be  received  from  England  or  that  other  provision 
be  made  in  pursuance  of  the  powers  of  government  committed 
to  you :  And  that  in  the  meanwhile  for  the  preservation  of 
the  state  and  necessary  proceedings  in  matters  of  justice  all 
the  said  persons  in  whatsoever  degree  or  condition  do  not  fail 
every  one  severally  according  to  his  place  and  office  or  charge 
to  proceed  in  the  performance  of  all  duties  thereunto  belonging 
as  formerly  appertained  unto  them.  And  we  do  further  here- 
by charge  and  require  that  all  orders  and  directions  lately 
made  or  given  by  any  legal  authority  shall  be  obeyed  and  per 
formed  by  all  persons  as  fully  as  the  same  should  have  been 
obeyed  and  done  according  to  the  purport  thereof  until  further 
orders  aforementioned.  Given  at  St.  James's  the  12th  Janu- 
ary 1688-9. 

By  his  Highnesses  command 

Wm.  Jephson. 

'*  Tt  is  apparent  from  the  following  letter  transmitted  by 
the  Privy  Council  to  the  various  governors  how  much  more 
the  Colonies  were  regarded  than  Ireland  and  what  an  extra- 
ordinary change  they  underwent  without  their  consent.  From 
Yirg.^  Ent.  4  v.  236. 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  37 

After  our  very  hearty  commendations. 
Whereas  William  and  Mary  rrinee  and  Princess  of  Orange 
have  with  the  consent  and  at  the  desire  of  the  Lords  spiritual 
and  temporal  in  parliament  assembled  at  Westminster  been 
proclaimed  King  and  Queen  of  England  France  and  Ireland  and 
of  the  territories  and  dominions  thereto  appertaining  we  have 
thought  fit  hereby  to  signify  the  same  unto  you  with  directions 
that  with  the  council  and  other  principal  officers  and  inhabi- 
tants of  Virginia  you  proclaim  their  most  Sacred  Majestys 
according  to  the  form  here  inclosed  with  the  solemnities  and 
ceremonies  requisite  on  the  like  occasion.  And  we  do  further 
transmit  unto  yon  their  Majesty's  most  gracious  proclamation, 
signifying  their  Majesty's  pleasure  that  all  men  being  in  offices 
of  government  shall  so  continue  until  their  Majesty's  further 
pleasure  be  known.  We  do  in  like  manner  will  and  require 
you  forthwith  to  cause  to  be  proclaimed  and  published,  as  also 
that  you  do  give  order  that  the  oaths  herewith  sent  be  taken 
by  all  persons  of  whom  the  oaths  of  supremacy  and  allegiance 
might  heretofore  have  been  required  ;  and  tliat  the  said  oaths  of 
allegiance  and  supremacy  be  set  aside  and  abrogated  within 
your  government.     And  so  &c. 

From  the  Council  Chamber  the  19th  February  1688-9. 
Halifax,  C.  P.  S.     Shrewsbury     Macclesfield 
Bath  H.  Capel  J,  Boscawen 

Winchester  Devonshire      Delamere 

Ro.  Howard  P.  Hampden. 

"  The  subjoined  letter  from  the  Secretary  of  Virginia  to  the 
Lords  of  the  Committee  of  plantations  shows  the  sentiments 
and  conduct  of  tlie  Virginians  at  the  Pevolution  in  their  true 
colours.     From  Virg.''  Ent.  5  v.  p.  3. 

May  it  please  your  Lordships 
The  duty  incumbent  upon  the  office  of  Secretary  in  this 
dominion,  in  which  I  have  had  the  honour  some  years  to  serve, 
obliges  me  to  give  your  Lordships  an  account  of  the  present 
state  of  affairs,  and  to  let  your  Lordships  know  such  occur- 
rences as  have  happened,  viz. ;  that  the  mutations  of  England 
have  extended  their  influence  as  far  as  these  remote  dominions  : 
For  no  sooner  did  the  news  of  the  late  admired  transactions 
arrive  here,  though  but  imperfectly  noised,  and  that  with  little 
probability  of  truth,  but  it  began  to  be  in  the  mouths  of  tlie 
mobile,  that  there  was  no  king  in  England,  and  consequently 
no  government  here.  Upon  this  surmise  followed  rumours 
that  the  papists  of  Maryland  together  with  those  among  us 
had  machinated  to  bring  great  numbers  of  foreign  Indiaiis  to 
the  destruction  of  the  inhabitants  of  both  domimons  and  had 


38  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

prefixed  a  certain  time  when  this  blow  was  to  be  given.  These 
though  false  and  groundless  reports  raised  great  fears  and 
jealousies  in  the  miuds  of  the  multitude  and  soon  Itrought 
them  together  in  arms  to  repel  the  supposed  designs  ;  and  so 
great  a  llame  was  kindled  by  the  blastsof  popular  breaths  that 
if  it  had  not  been  timely  prevented  by  the  vigilance,  care,  and 
])rudence  of  some  of  the  Council  and  others  in  the  ver>'  begin- 
ning of  it,  must  have  unavoidably  proved  fatal  to  both  do- 
minions ;  and  thougli  it  soon  appeared  that  these  rumours  were 
vain  and  idle  and  the  people  in  some  sort  quieted,  yet  others 
like  hydras  heads  sprung  up  in  their  places  to  the  great  dis- 
quiet of  the  government ;  and  it  was  rationally  believed  that 
the  difiiculties  of  keeping  tliis  dominion  free  from  tumults, 
divisions,  and  depredations  would  have  been  insuperable  had 
not  the  news  of  the  happy  accession  of  the  Prince  and  Princess 
of  Orange  to  the  crown  of  England  arrived  here  with  orders 
from  their  Majestys  most  honourable  privy  council  for  the 
proclaiming  of  the  same  given  check  to  unruly  spirits ;  which 
proclamation  was  effected  at  James  City  with  all  possible 
speed  and  with  as  great  solemnity  as  the  shortness  of  time  and 
the  necessity  of  present  circumstances  would  admit  of;  and 
the  proclamations  are  now  going  forth  into  all  connties  of  this 
dominion  that  none  may  be  ignorant  of  it,  and  the  great  cause 
of  their  tumults — viz.  the  belief  that  there  w^as  no  king  in 
England  and  consequently  no  government  here  may  be  re- 
moved ;  and  peace  and  tranquility  restored  and  established 
amongst  them,  which  that  it  may  succeed  is  the  daily  pra^^er 
of  all  loyal  subjects  and  particularly  of  &g. 

Nicholas  Spencee. 

"  Journ.  Plant.  Off.  6  v.  p.  147-8-200.—"  Maryland  Pap. 
vol.  .— '^  Journ.  Plant.  Off*.  6  v.  p.  265-8-302.—'"  Maryland 
Pap.  vol.  . — '"  See  an  account  of  all  these  things  in  the  same 
papers.—"  Journ.  Plant.  Off.  6  v.  p.  304. 

''"  Edward  Randolph,  the  surveyor  general  of  the  Customs 
in  the  Colonies,  informed  the  ministers  of  England  in  February 
1700-1  :  "  That  neither  former  governors  nor  Pen  since  his 
arrival  here  [Pensylvania]  have  proclaimed  King  William." 
Plant*  Gen^  B.  p.  474.  This  must  be  understood  of  a  foniKd 
proclamation  ;  because  the  Quakers  were  enemies  to  pomp. 
For  the  laws  had  assuredly  been  administered  for  several 
years  in  the  name  of  William  and  Mary.  Mr.  McPherson  has 
published  a  paper  in  liis  secret  history  of  England  1  v.  p.  603, 
which  demonstrates  that  the  Quakers  were  universally  "  the 
friends  of  James  2d."  The  deposition  of  Forat  among  the 
Pennsylvania  papers,  and  the  letters  from  Leisler  to  Bishop 


CHALMERS  S    POLITICAL    ANNALS.  39 

Burnet,  among  the  New  Jersey  and  New  York  papers,  show  that 
the  representations  transmitted  from  England  on  this  subject 
to  that  prince  were  just.  William  Bromtield,  a  quaker,  wrote 
from  Ostend  in  February  1710-11  to  Lord  Dartmouth,  Secre- 
tary of  State :  That  for  conscience  towards  God  and  without 
any  self-interest  he  had  served  the  late  King  James  in  his 
exile  during  his  life,  and  would  have  returned  to  England 
upon  the  accession  of  Queen  Anne,  but  had  been  imprisoned 
by  means  of  the  representations  of  Lord  Middleton,  the  Secre- 
tary of  the  late  king,  though  Queen  Mary  had  nothing  to  ob- 
ject against  him.  He  offered  if  he  were  released  to  shew  the 
Queen  how  to  attain  her  ends  at  a  much  less  expense  of  blood 
and  treasure  [Paper  Office].  That  this  man  was.  acquainted 
with  secrets  was  probably  the  chief  cause  of  his  misfortune. 
And  Middleton  was  too  well  informed  not  to  know,  that  the 
Quakers  were  then  deemed  excellent  negotiators.  The  Board 
of  Trade,  in  reporting  to  the  Queen  in  September,  1709,  the 
laws  lately  passed  in  Pennsylvania,  observe :  "■  That  in  none 
of  the  acts  of  this  province  there  is  any  clause  for  renouncing 
the  Pretender  or  declaring  their  allegiance  to  your  Majesty  : 
And  therefore  we  humbly  offer  that  your  Majesty  be  pleased 
to  signify  your  pleasure  to  Mr.  Pen,  that  he  endeavour  to  get 
a  law  passed  for  that  purpose."     Proprieties  F.  p.  151. 

"  See  this,  ante, — "  Randolph's  correspondence  with  the 
ministry  and  other  accounts.  N.  Eng.  Pap.  Bundl,  5.  p.  31- 
94. — ""^  This  proclamation  which  was  made  the  chief  article  of 
complaint  against  Andros,  because  it  most  immediately  af- 
fected the  feelings  of  William,  may  be  seen  among  the  same 
papers. — '""  Captain  George's  letter  to  Pepys.  Same  jjapers, 
p.  34. — "'  There  is  a  very  particular  account  of  the  posts  that 
he  established  and  of  the  garrisons  which  he  left,  among  the 
same  papers.—"  N.  Eng.  Ent.  3  v.  p.  43.-- '  Jour.  Plant.  Off. 
6  V.  p.  197-8. — "'See  an  address  which  was  presented  to  Mary 
in  Holland  on  behalf  of  New  England  among  the  same 
papers.— ="  N.  Eng.  Ent.  3  v.  p.  200-1.—='  Journ.  Plant.  Off. 
6  vol.  p.  '200-4.— =^N.  Eng.  Papers.— =' lb.— =*  NeaPs  N. 
Eng.  2  V.  p.  242-7. — '"  The  address  is  among  the  N.  Eng. 
papers. — '"Captain  George's  letter  beforementioned. — "  Hutch. 
Hist.  1  V.  p.  387. — ^*  The  address  and  the  mode  of  its  recep- 
tion may  be  seen  among  the  N.  Eng.  papers. — ""  Jour.  Plant. 
Off.  6  V.  p.  247.—"  lb.  245.—"  lb.  209.—"  Hutch.  Hist.  1  v.  p. 
389. — "  Randolph  informed  the  Committee  of  Colonies  of  this 
circnmstance  and  transmitted  a  copy  of  the  proclamation 
graced  with  the  print  of  the  great  seal,  which  may  be  seen 
among  the  N.  Eng.  papers. 

"  These  arc  among  the  N.  Eng.  papers. — *'  Hutch.  Hist. 


40 


THE    CONTINUATION    OF 


1  V.  p.  406. — "  For  these  things  see  the  N.  York  papers, 
Yol.  2. — "  Proprieties  B.  333-41 ;  and  ]^.  Jersey  papers, 
Vol.  1.—"  Car.  Ent.  2  v.  p.  167-8-71.—^"  Laws  of  Maryland, 
1692,  ch.  1.  Laws  of  N.  Yk.  p.  1.  Of  the  act  of  Mary- 
land just  mentioned  it  ought  to  be  observed,  that  among 
various  other  laws  it  was  not  finally  considered  by  the 
ministers  of  England  till  October,  1699.  The  Attorney-Gen- 
eral Trevor  then  reported  :  "  Thait  he  found  nothing  in  them 
contrary  to  law  or  to  the  Prerogative."  [Maryl.  pap.  D.  p.  7.] 
Yet  the  assembly  having  found  an  act  recognizing  Queen 
Anne  in  the  same  spirit  of  zeal  [1704,  ch.  l.J  it  was  among 
other  laws  referred  to  Sir  Simon  Harcourt,  a  lawyer  of  pro- 
founder  judgment  and  deeper  research,  who  gave  it  as  his 
opinion  :  "  That  though  the  act  of  recognition  was  an  instance 
of  the  fidelity  of  the  inhabitants  ;  yet  in  regard  the  said  prov- 
ince is  entirely  dependent  on  the  Crown  of  England  and  no 
such  law  has  been  thought  proper  to  pass  in  England  since 
her  majesty's  accession,  such  a  law  is  improper  to  be  passed  in 
the  Assembly  of  this  Province."  [Maryland  Pap.  11.  p.  48.] 

^°  Such  are  the  emphatical  words  of  the  statute  1  Wm.  &  M. 

2  Sess.  ch.  9. 


CHALMERS  S    POLITICAL   ANNALS.  41 


CHAPTER    II. 

JS/nibarrassmcnts  of  William. —  He  prepares  for  War. — State 
of  Yirginia. — Its  complaints  against  Lord  Howard.,  the 
late  governor  to  that  prince  j — to  the  Commons. — Nichol- 
son sent  thither  Lieutenant  Governor. — His  administra- 
tion.— An  Indian  War  begins  in  New  England. — The 
conduct  of  And  COS. — The  proceedings  of  the  (Jommittee  of 
Safety. — The  attach  on  Acadie. — The  French  retaliate. — 
The  expedition  against  Queheck. — Subsequent  distress  of 
New  England. — The  solicitation  of  a  new  Charter. — 
Affairs  of  New  Yorh  ; — and  of  Canada. — The  five  con- 
federated tribes  prepare  against  the  French  invasion. — 
Schenectady  sacked. — Subsequent  conduct  of  New  York. 
—  Governor  Sloughter  arrives  here. — His  administration. 
— Ingoldsby  assumes  the  administration  after  his  death. 
— State  of  the  Jerseys  / — of  Pensylvania. — Affairs  of 
Maryland. — A  change  of  government. — Copley  appointed 
governor. — Condition  m  North  Carolina. — Distractions 
of  South  Carolina. — Ludwell  appointed  governor. — His 
administration. — Is  succeeded  by  Smith. — His  prudent 
advice  to  the  Proprietaries. 

nVT"0  sooner  had  William  thus  acquired  possession  of 
_L>l  the  throne  of  England,  and  with  it  the  government 
of  her  various  dominions,  than  he  discovered  what  seems 
not  to  have  been  foreseen  during  the  flutter  of  expecta- 
tion, that  the  one  was  encompassed  with  danger,  that 
the  exercise  of  the  other  was  attended  with  vexation. 
Those  factions  which  common  danger  had  rather  allay- 
ed than  extinguished,  soon  revived,  because  many  were 
dissatisfied  with  their  own  conduct,  and  more  were  dis- 
appointed, since  every  one  could  not  be  gratified.  In 
return  they  thwarted  the  measures  of  the  prince  whom 
they  had  just  invested  with  the  |)ower  to  command,  be- 
cause   disappointment    necessarily    begets    opposition. 


42  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

And  he  found  the  Crown  sit  uneasy  on  his  head,  because 
though  supported  by  positive  hiw  it  was  not  upheld  by 
that  best  of  all  securities  the  aflections  of  the  people. 
To  domestic  infelicities  were  superadded  the  appreheii- 
sions  of  foreign  war,  which  he  foresaw  was  inevitable, 
which  perhaps  he  encouraged.  The  late  king  was  not 
only  received  by  Lewis  14  with  the  cordial  affection  of 
a  friend,  but  with  those  assurances  of  effectual  aid, 
which  proceeded  no  less  from  his  attachment  to  the  one 
prince,  than  his  hatred  of  the  other.  And  while  the 
assistance  of  that  mighty  monarch  enabled  James  to 
land  in  Ireland  it  afforded  William  the  opportunity 
which  he  probably  wished  for,  of  animating  an  English 
Parliament  against  a  Sovereign,  whom  almost  all  Eu- 
rope either  detested  or  dreaded.  The  moment  that 
spirited  assembly  was  informed,  that  the  abdicated  king 
had  appeared  in  Ireland,  at  the  head  of  a  French  force, 
in  order  to  recover  his  former  rights  by  means  of  the 
Irish,  than  forgetting  its  usual  contentions  it  hastened 
to  assure  William  of  its  zealous  support  in  a  war  against 
France  ;  which  was  soon  commenced  without  considera- 
tion, carried  on  without  ability  or  success,  and  ended 
without  glory.^  And  the  nation  sadly  felt  tliose  embar- 
rassments, which  every  people  and  every  individual 
must  deplore,  who  engage  in  enterprizes  beyond  their 
abilities. 

As  early  as  the  middle  of  April  1689,  that  war- 
like prince  gave  formal  notice  to  the  governors  of 
the  several  plantations  "  of  the  preparations  then  mak- 
ing for  a  speedy  war  with  the  French" king;  "  he  warn- 
ed them  "  to  put  every  thing  in  a  condition  to  resist 
any  attempt  of  the  enemy;"  he  assured  tliem  not  only 
of  such  assistance  as  should  render  them  secure,  but  to 
(jblige  France  to  make  reparation  for  her  violences : 
Assigning  as  reasons  what  seemed  finely  calculated  to 
strike  the  imaginations  of  the  Colonists  and  to  gain  their 
co-operation ;  the  frequent  injuries  received  from  the 
French  by  his  sul)jects  in  apparent  violation  of  treaties  ; 
the  interruption  of"  their  commerce ;  and  the  invasion  of 


CHALMERS  S    POLITICAL   ANNALS.  43 

the  kings  territories  in  America.^  But  the  Colonies 
were  in  no  condition,  because  they  had  no  experience  of 
any  attacks  from  European  foes,  either  to  repel  the 
attempts  of  enemies  or  to  give  aid  to  friends  in  the  war, 
which  was  soon  after  declared  against  a  potentate,  no 
less  powerful  from  the  greatness  of  his  resomxes,  than  for 
the  ability  of  his  otiicers  and  the  zeal  of  his  subjects. 

Scarcely  had  Lord  Howard  the  governor  of  Vir- 
ginia, arrived  in  England,  accompanied  by  Ludwell, 
the  agent  of  the  Burgesses,  when  he  was  called  on  to 
answer  at  the  tribunal  of  his  new  sovereign  for  the  op- 
pressions committed  under  the  authority  ©f  his  late 
master.  In  March  1G89,  the  agent  complained  to  Wil- 
liam :  That  his  loyal  subjects  in  that  colony  had  for 
some  years  been  grievously  oppressed  though  three  suc- 
cessive assemblies  had  applied  to  the  governor  and 
Council  for  relief:  Tliat  the  late  governor  had  imposed 
various  fees  of  office  without  the  consent  of  the  assem- 
bly ;  that  he  had  revived  laws  formerly  repealed, 
merely  because  the  act  of  repeal  was  refused  the  royal 
assent ;  that  he  had  rendered  no  account  to  the  assem- 
bly of  the  fines  and  forfeitures.  Having  heard  both 
parties,  having  received  the  opinion  of  Treby  and 
Somers,  the  attorney  and  solicitor  general,  that  monarch 
decided  several  questions  of  constitutional  law  against 
the  assernbty,  because  they  were  favourable  to  the  pre- 
rogative :  He  declared  that  when  a  repealing  law  is 
itself  repealed,  the  abrogated  act  instantly  revives ; 
that  the  governor  and  Council  had  sufficient  power  un- 
der the  authority  of  a  royal  instruction  to  impose  reason- 
able fees  ;  yet  Avith  the  usual  policy  of  Courts,  he  ad- 
judged that  the  law  in  question  should  ])e  deemed  void 
in  future,  because  it  was  complained  of;  that  fees  lately 
established  should  be  no  longer  demanded,  because  they 
had  been  found  inconvenient ;  that  the  fines  and  for- 
feiture  should  thereafter  be  aj)plied  to  the  support  of 
government.^  But  Ludwel  fixiled  in  what  was  probably 
the  chief  end  of  his  embassage  ;  since  Lord  Howard  was 
soon  after  declared  governor  of  Virginia,  as  these  com- 


44  THE  CONTINUATION    OF 

plaints  were  deemed  questions  of  policy,  rather  than 
accusations  afFecthig  his  reputation/  Disappointed  in 
his  hopes  and  dissatisfied  with  the  judgement  of  his 
prince,  Ludwell  five  days  after  appealed  to  the  Com- 
mons of  England,  who  then  acted  as  the  protectors  of 
every  dominion  of  the  state.  To  them  he  presented  "  a 
petition  on  behalf  of  the  Commons  of  Virginia  ;  "  com- 
plaining of  similar  grievances  ;  and  praying  for  relief. 
But  though  he  was  called  on  to  shew  his  authority  and 
a  committee  was  appointed  to  hear  his  complaints  it 
appears  not  that  any  redress  was  given. ^  Thus  at  that 
great  era  "  the  Commons  of  Virginia"  were  not  too  high 
minded  to  beg  for  the  consideration  of  the  commons  of 
England,  when  dissatisfied  with  the  judgement  of  Wil- 
liam ;  to  confess  their  superiority,  since  they  admitted 
their  jurisdiction,  when  they  stood  in  need  of  their  aid. 
Too  zealous  to  despond  because  he  was  disappointed, 
Ludwell  in  September  1689,  once  more  complained  to 
that  monarch  of  other  grievances,  which  he  asserted 
were  equally  oppressive,  though  the  Burgesses  had  not 
formerly  insisted  on  ihem,  "  because  of  the  terror  they 
were  under."  But  it  now  appearing  that  this  long  list 
of  afflictions  were  presented  rather  with  a  view  to  pre- 
vent the  return  of  the  late  governor,  than  from  a  real 
sense  of  injury  the  present  application  was  attended 
with  still  less  success  than  the  first.  And  as  Lord 
Howard  shewed  no  great  inclination  to  revisit  a  people, 
who  so  little  wished  for  his  presence,  Francis  Nicholson, 
who  had  lately  arrived  from  New  York  was  soon  after 
dispatched  as  Lieutenant  governor  to  rule  Virginia  in 
his  absence,^ 

When  Nicholson  arrived  in  May  1690,  he  discovered 
that  the  dominion  committed  to  his  charge  had  remained 
since  the  accession  of  William  and  Mary  in  profound 
peace ;  though  "  there  had  not  been  wanting  ill-disposed 
persons  who  endeavoured  to  disturb  its  repose."  News  of 
the  French  and  Indian  devastations  on  the  Northern  Col- 
onies having  meanwhile  reached  Virginia,  the  people  fear- 
ed for  their  safety,  in  proportion  only  as  they  heard  of 


CHALMERS  S    POLITICAL   ANNALS.  45 

the  calamities  of  war,  from  afar.  The  governor  thought 
it  prudent  however  to  visit  the  frontiers,  where  an  at- 
tack only  was  apprehended,  the  defence  of  which  he 
perceived  would  be  difficult,  because  they  were  thinly 
inhabited ;  to  inspect  the  places  of  strength,  which  de- 
served not  the  name  of  fortifications ;  to  review  the 
militia,  Avhich  were  neither  disciplined  nor  armed,  be- 
cause they  were  poor.  And  he  put  the  country  in  the 
best  state  of  defence,  that  an  entire  want  of  warlike 
stores  would  admit ;  to  the  great  encouragement  of  the 
inhabitants,  who  determined  to  repel  any  attempts  on 
their  borders.  But  he  gave  warning  at  the  same  time 
to  the  ministers  of  England  that  it  was  impossible  to 
protect  effectually  a  level  country,  so  intersected  by 
navigable  rivers,  except  by  ships  of  war,  which  would 
not  only  defend  it  from  depredations  by  sea,  but  pre- 
vent illegal  traffick  so  destructive  of  the  real  interests  of 
the  state.  Partly  owing  to  the  want  of  the  spii'it  of 
industry,  but  more  to  embargoes  frequently  laid  on  the 
trade  of  Virginia  during  the  war,  and  to  the  distresses 
of  England,  the  commerce  of  that  dominion  suffered 
still  more  than  that  of  the  parent  country.  The  Vir- 
ginians were  neither  sufficiently  supplied  with  the  accus- 
tomed necessaries  nor  was  their  tobacco  their  only  staple 
and  resource  wholly  exported,  and  the  public  revenue 
diminished  in  proportion  as  the  wants  of  the  people  in- 
creased. To  the  Committee  of  Colonies  the  (jlovernor 
and  Council  with  a  laudable  spirit  represented :  That 
were  not  means  found  to  send  thither  a  greater  number 
of  ships  in  the  subsequent  year,  with  abundant  supplies 
of  clothing,  tlie  inhabitants  would  assuredly  apply  to 
manufactures  and  the  taxes  must  continue  to  decrease  : 
That  the  greatest  inconvenience  had  been  found  from 
the  absence  of  officers,  whose  actual  residence  should  be 
insisted  on  as  an  essential  condition  of  their  appoint- 
ment. Nor  were  those  the  only  infelicities  which  were 
then  felt  and  lamented.  The  Virginians  had  disputes 
with  North  Carolina  relative  to  boundaries  :  On  tlie 
north  the  inhabitants  of  that  immense  peninsula,  bound- 


46  THE  CONTINUATION    OF 

ed  by  the  E,appahannock  and  Potomack,  were  disquiet- 
ed by  Lord  Culpepper's  pretensions.  And  it  was  now 
represented,  that  were  "  the  northern-neck"  placed  under 
a  settled  government  it  would  greatly  contribute  to  the 
safety  of  the  whole,  because  the  interests  and  affections 
of  all  would  be  thereby  united.' 

The  assembly  of  Virginia  convened  for  the  first  time 
since  the  Kevolution  in  April  1691.  And  the  circum- 
stances of  the  province  directed  its  attention  to  those 
objects  which  most  immediately  required  their  legislative 
care.  It  passed  various  acts,^  for  the  better  defence  of 
the  country  ;  for  the  more  effectual  suppression  of  vice ; 
and  for  a  free  trade  with  the  Indians  ;  which  had  for- 
merly been  restrained.,  What  had  been  so  lately  pre- 
dicted, now  actually  happened:  The  obstructions  to 
commerce  obliged  the  people  to  endeavour  to  supply 
themselves  with  the  most  useful  manufactures  :  And  the 
assembly,  among  other  regulations  of  domestic  economy, 
passed  an  act  "enjoining  the  planting  of  flax  and  hemp  ; 
one  for  the  advancement  of  the  manufactures  of  this 
country  ;  and  one  for  the  establishment  of  Ports  :  But 
laws  are  made  in  vain  when  they  militate  against  the 
spirit  of  a  people,  and  the  dispensations  of  nature.  The 
multitude  of  navigable  creeks  which  are  so  advantageous 
to  a  commercial  nation,  have  hitherto  prevented  the  rise 
of  considerable  towns,  or  the  establishment  of  Ports  : 
And  the  haughty  masters  of  innumerable  slaves  have  not 
yet  dAvindled  into  skillful  manufacturers.  The  assembly 
transmitted  an  address  to  William ;  congratulating  his 
accession  to  the  tln'one  ;  thanking  him  for  his  seasonable 
supply  of  warlike  stores  ;  and  praying  for  a  continuance 
of  the  old,  and  an  addition  of  further  privileges,  for  an 
application  of  the  estal:>lished  revenue  to  secure  the 
country,  and  for  a  settlement  of  the  affairs  of  the  penin- 
sula before  mentioned,  which  had  been  long  in  confusion, 
which  occasioned  a  dangerous  separation.  Nicholson 
enjoyed  the  rare  felicity  of  giving  at  the  same  time  satis- 
faction to  his  prince  and  to  the  people  over  whom  he 
presided  :   And  the  assembly  presented  an  address  to  that 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  47 

monarcli  in  his  favour;  begging  permission  to  make 
him  a  present  of  three  hundred  pounds.  The  governor, 
sensible  what  offence  it  has  always  given  to  England 
to  behold  manufactures  established  in  her  colonies, 
because  it  strikes  at  the  foundation  of  her  power,  apolo- 
gized to  the  committee  of  plantations  with  regard  to 
the  act  for  planting  flax  and  hemp,  by  saying  "  that  it 
was  only  to  please  the  inhabitants,  who  the  moment 
they  are  sufficienth'  supplied  with  merchandiz(3s  will 
mind  nothing  but  tobacco."  And  he  solicited  in  language 
which  shewed  the  commercial  distresses  of  the  country, 
•'  that  a  few  ships  may  be  allowed  to  bring  supplies  with 
X  comfortable  account  to  keep  the  people  in  hopes."  ^ 

Meanwhile,  Lady  Culpepper  and  Lord  Fairfax,  who 
had  married  her  daughter,  equally  anxious  for  a  termi- 
nation of  the  disorders  of  the  northern-neck,  which  so 
greatly  affected  their  interest,  presented  a  petition  to 
William  in  May  1691 :  Stating  the  original  grant  of 
that  immense  region  to  Lord  St.  Albans  and  others, 
who  conveyed  it  to  their  predecessor  for  a  valuable  con- 
sideration, and  the  confirmation  of  the  late  king  in  Sep- 
tember 1688  :  And  praying  not  only  for  approbation  of 
their  rio-ht  but  for  directions  to  the  jxovernment  of  Vir- 
ginia  to  protect  their  agents.  The  committee  of  planta- 
tions, having  heard  the  petitioners''  counsel,  thought  it 
prudent  to  send  the  representation  on  this  business  to 
the  governor  and  Council;  in  order  that  they  might 
support  their  objections  to  the  patent,  because  it 
was  granted  during  the  late  reign.  After  hearing  all 
parties,  Somers  the  attorney  general  at  length  reported ; 
"  that  nothing  had  been  made  out  to  him  sufficient  to 
vacate  the  letters  patents,  which  had  been  granted  in 
the  usual  form  and  Avhich  were  consequently  valid  in 
point  of  law."  His  opinion  was  approved,  because  it 
was  just.  And  William  gave  orders  in  January  1692  : 
"That  the  petitioners  be  alloAved  to  enjoy  their  grant, 
provided  they  keeped  strictly  to  the  tenor  thereof" 
Thus  the  tranquillity  of  so  large  a  part  of  Virginia  was 
again  restored.     Lord   Fairfax  enjoyed  in  future  the 


48  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

soil,  the  quit  rents,  the  manorial  rights.  And  the  pow- 
ers of  government  were  now  equally  extended  over  the 
whole,  because  "  the  northern-neck "  equally  formed 
part  of  the  same  dominion.^''  Though  Lord  Effingham 
had  been  continued  governor  of  Virginia  he  neither 
shewed  any  anxiety  to  assume  the  management  of  a 
charge  from  whicli  he  derived  so  great  a  revenue,  nor 
prepared  to  remove  thither  even  long  after  his  sovereign 
had  been  repeatedly  put  in  remembrance  of  the  bad  policy 
of  allowing  colonial  officers  to  reside  in  England.  And 
Sir  Edmond  Andros,  whose  talents  as  a  soldier  were 
respected  by  William  and  whose  liigh  political  princi- 
ples were  congenial  with  his  own,  was  appointed  governor 
in  February  1692.  Meantime  a  large  quantity  of  war- 
like stores  had  been  granted  to  the  prayers  of  the  as- 
sembly. And  upon  the  application  of  Andros  arms  were 
sent  with  him  for  the  militia. ^^  Thus  England  during 
her  arduous  struggle  for  the  Kevolution  and  liberty 
gave  aid  to  her  distant  subjects  who  were  unable  to 
procure  the  means  of  defence  for  tbemselves  during  the 
days  of  their  supposed  indigence ;  because  she  deemed 
them  lier  sons,  who,  when  they  should  arrive  at  man- 
hood, would  repay  her  cares  with  filial  gratitude  and 
effectual  support. 

While  these  various  transactions  occurred  in  Eng- 
land, the  assembly  of  Virginia  again  convened  in  April 
1G92.  And  after  passing  a  few  laws -^^  redressive  of 
domestic  inconveniences,  it  transmitted  an  address  to 
William  :  Thanking  him  for  the  warlike  stores  and 
frigates  lately  sent  for  their  defence,  and  promising  to 
lay  down  their  lives  and  fortunes  in  defence  of  his  inter- 
est and  the  laws.^^  When  that  body  reflected  on  the 
want  of  the  seminary  of  learning  which  Sir  William 
Berkeley  had  formerly  hoped  might  not  be  established 
for  a  century,  which  Nicholson  however  now  recom- 
mended to  their  attention,  it  dispatched  a  trusty  mes- 
senger to  England  "  to  beg  leave  of  their  majestys  to 
erect  a  free  School  and  College  by  granting  a  charter 
with  accustomed  privileges."   And  he  executed  his  trust 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  49 

with  great  zeal  and  address.  To  the  ministers  of  Eng- 
land, Blair,  the  Commissary  of  the  Bishop  of  London, 
represented  :  That  the  Virginians  had  already  subscrib- 
ed two  tliousand  pounds,  and  though  the  assembly  relied 
much  on  the  King  and  Queen  for  endowing  an  estab- 
lishment, so  much  wanted,  and  so  much  desired,  yet 
thought  it  indecent  to  prescribe  the  manner :  And  that 
when  the  legislature  of  the  Colony  has  seen  the  amount 
of  the  royal  munificence  it  will  contribute  what  should 
be  further  necessary  by  impositions  on  the  Colony.  He 
prayed  that  there  might  be  granted  for  this  purpose 
what  had  been  suggested  by  Nicholson,  and  was  at  pres- 
ent of  little  value :  two  thousand  pounds  of  the  quit 
rents,  which  both  Charles  2d  and  James  had  promised 
should  be  applied  to  the  use  of  the  province  ;  a  tax  of 
a  penny  a  pound  granted  by  pai-liament  on  the  export 
of  tobacco  to  any  other  colony  from  the  place  of  its 
growth,  which  was  then  absorbed  in  the  collection ;  two 
thousand  acres  of  the  immense  territory  then  unlocated, 
which  would  be  thankfully  received  ;  the  office  of  sur- 
veyor general,  who  partook  in  the  profits  of  his  deputies ; 
the  escheats  as  they  should  arise ;  and  the  patronage  of 
churches.  The  Lords  of  the  treasury,  Somers,  the 
attorney  general,  the  commissioners  of  the  Customs ;  all 
did  honour  to  tliemselves  by  reporting  in  favour  of  a 
project  which  had  for  its  end  the  propagation  of  religion 
and  the  interests  of  science.  Mary  with  peculiar  pleas- 
ure ap[)roved  of  their  advice,  and  gave  orders  in  Sep- 
tember 1G92,  to  grant  all  that  was  asked,  except  only 
the  escheats;  because  Somers  and  Trevor  gave  it  as 
their  opinion  "  that  it  was  doubtful  if  the  king  could 
give  them  away  before  they  fell,  and  it  would  not  be 
advisable  to  place  the  forfeitures  for  treason  in  other 
hands.""  '*  Yet  the  men  of  cautious  tempers  even  then 
hoped  :  "  That  the  planters  never  will  make  use  of  the 
generous  encouragement  tliat  had  been  thus  afforded 
them  by  their  mother  country,  for  disputing  the  depend- 
ence and  allegiance  they  owe  her."  '^  Animated  by 
these  liberal  favours  Virginia  enjoyed  a  profound  tran- 


50  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

quillity,  which  Nicholson  endeavoured  with  a  laudable 
spirit  to  ensure  in  case  of  an  attack,  by  improving  the 
discipline  of  the  militia.  The  only  danger  which  then 
threatened  the  inhabitants  arose  from  the  scarcity  of 
merchandize  to  suj^ply  their  wants,  of  vessels  to  carry 
away  their  productions.  And  the  northern  Indians  and 
Canadians  were  either  too  distant,  or  too  busily  engaged 
with  the  Eastern  Colonies  to  give  any  disturbance  to  a 
people  who  acted  no  part  in  the  bloody  scenes  of  the 
war  that  involved  the  interests  of  every  part  of  the 
English  Empire  in  its  final  success. 

Urged  by  those  motives  of  enmity,  which  have  at 
all  times  existed  between  the  Aborigines  and  Colonists, 
the  Indians  began  hostilities  on  the  Eastern  frontiers 
of  New  England,  as  early  as  autumn  1688,  while  peace 
with  the  French  yet  continued.  Upon  intelligence  of 
this  event,  Andros  with  his  accustomed  vigour  hasten- 
ed from  New  York  to  Boston.  He  dispatched  a  part 
of  the  standing  companies,  as  a  reinforcement,  with  war- 
like stores,  while  he  sent  vessels  to  secure  the  coast  and 
fisheries.  He  hastily  collected  about  six  hundred  men, 
and  upon  General  Winthrops  declining  the  command, 
he  conducted  them  to  the  scene  of  action,  "through  frost 
and  snow  : ''  "  Taking  upon  himself  his  full  share  of  the 
hardships "  of  the  march,  because  it  alleviated  the 
fatigues  of  soldiers  little  accustomed  to  discipline.  But 
on  his  approach  the  Indians  according  to  their  usual 
policy  retired  into  their  fastnesses.  Nor  were  these  suf- 
ficient to  protect  them  against  the  several  parties  which 
he  detached  to  destroy  their  settlements,  their  warlike 
stores,  their  provisions  :  And  they  were  reduced  to  the 
greatest  distress  and  were  ready  to  sue  for  mercy.  In 
order  to  preserve  that  superiority,  which  his  good  con- 
duct had  thus  acquired,  he  judiciously  placed  seven 
hundred  men  in  twelve  fortlets  and  smaller  j^laces  of 
arms,  along  the  skirts  of  the  province  under  experienced 
officers.  And  neither  devastation  nor  injury  was  com- 
mitted during  the  winter  and  ensuing  spring.^*'  While 
discontent  possesses  the  people,  they  contemn  the  best 


CHALMEPwS  S    POLITICAL    ANNALS.  51 

judged  measures  of  their  hated  rulers  for  their  preserva- 
tion :  The  rational  exertions  of  Andros  were  "  univer- 
sally condemned,  as  we  are  assured,^'  because  the  men 
were  exposed  to  hardship  without  any  prospect  of 
service.""  Yet  the  county  of  Cornwall  and  province  of 
Main,  which  were  exposed  the  most  and  acquired  secur- 
ity from  his  exertions,  did  justice  to  his  merit  by  ac- 
knowledging themselves  fully  protected  till  tlie  insurrec- 
tion in  Massachusetts  again  exposed  them  to  danger. ^"^ 

No  sooner  was  the  success  of  the  Revolution  at  Bos- 
ton decided  than  the  Committee  of  Safety  with  a  singular 
imprudence  or  infatuation  sent  orders  to  persons  on 
whom  it  could  rely  "to  cashier  the  officers  of  the  com- 
panies upon  the  English  establishrftent ;  to  take  the 
command  ot  the  forces  on  the  Eastern  frontiers  ;  to  de- 
tain as  many  as  the  circumstances  of  affaii-s  required ; 
and  to  send  home  the  remainder."  The  order  was 
executed  on  the  27  of  April,  with  that  rigour,  which 
the  extreme  jealousy  of  the  rulers  required.  In  Pema- 
([uid,  which  the  ministers  of  England  had  long  deemed 
the  ostensible  evidence  of  the  English  possession  towards 
the  boundaries  of  Acadie,  there  remained  only  eighteen 
men.  And  from  the  other  stations  the  soldiers  were 
either  drawn  off,  or  they  seized  their  officers  and  desert- 
ed their  posts,  because  their  fidelity  had  been  corrupted. 
In  the  meantime  Madockawando,  a  sachem  no  less  re- 
markable for  the  greatness  of  his  sagacity  than  for  his 
rooted  enmity  to  the  colonists,  arrived  at  Boston  about 
the  middle  of  April  1G89;  in  order  to  mediate  a  peace. 
Here  he  was  treated  with  an  attention  due  to  his  merit, 
and  he  was  soon  after  sent  home,  that  he  miglit  fullfil 
his  promises  to  promote  a  pacification.  But  he  had  noted 
with  care  the  uncommon  anarchy  which  prevailed ;  he 
perceived,  that  the  General  who  had  so  lately  repelled  the 
inroads  of  his  countrymen,  by  a  singular  reverse  of 
fortune,  was  now  closely  imprisoned.  And  when  he 
reached  the  frontiers  he  found  the  Army  disbanded  and 
the  forts  deserted.  The  tribes,  who  had  been  repulsed 
rather  than  subdued,  heard  his  information  with  pleas- 


52  TPIE    CONTINUATION    OF 

ure,  and  received  his  counsels  with  avidity.  And  they 
renewed  hostilities  with  fresh  ardour  and  augmented 
numbers,  because  they  were  animated  equally  by  re- 
venge and  by  hope  of  j^lunder.  In  April  1689,  they 
began  their  murderous  attacks  on  the  higher  settlements 
of  New  Hampshire  around  the  river  Piscattaqua,  where 
they  but  too  well  gratified  both  those  passions,  since  the 
inhabitants  were  unprotected  and  helpless.  Pemaquid, 
Saco,  and  Casco-bay  were  successively  taken.  The 
whole  country  as  far  westward  as  that  river  was  either 
deserted  or  laid  waste  with  those  circumstances  of  un- 
distinguishing  cruelty  so  natural  to  that  barbarous  ene- 
my. Before  October  1G89,  that  line  of  coast  extending 
from  the  river  St.  Croix  southwestward  one  hundred 
and  twenty  miles  had  felt  the  cruelty  of  their  depreda- 
tions, and  was  wholly  resigned  to  the  French  and  their 
Indian  allies.  The  damages  sustained  by  the  miserable 
colonists  were  computed  at  ten  thousand  pounds.  The 
fishery  and  commerce  of  lumber  were  lost,  because  the 
coasts  were  moreover  infested  by  numerous  privateers 
fitted  out  fi^om  Acadie.  During  several  months  of 
complicated  misery  the  exertions  of  the  Governor  and 
Council  were  extremely  feeble,  because  their  authority 
was  disputed,  and  though  every  means  were  tried  to 
procure  soldiers  to  repel  their  invaders,  i'ew  were  pro- 
cured, as  the  stabilit}^  of  their  power  was  doubted.  The 
General  Court  indeed  considered  it  rather  as  a  favour 
than  a  duty  to  defend  New  HamjDshire  and  Main,  since 
they  lay  without  its  jurisdiction.^^  But  the  numerous 
Ptefugees  who  were  compelled  to  desert  their  habitations, 
filled  Massachusetts  with  their  complaints,  and  in  the 
height  of  their  anguish  exclaimed :  That  the  men,  who 
from  motives  of  ambition  or  revenge  had  deprived  them 
of  the  blessings  of  government,  were  answerable  to  God 
for  the  blood  that  was  shed,  and  owed  to  the  undone 
commiseration  and  relief. 

The  general  Court  was  conscious  in  what  glowing 
colours  these  melancholy  events  would  be  painted  in 
England,  and  during  the  winter  of  1689-90,  it  medi- 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  63 

tated  some  enterprize,  tlia.t  should  at  once  convince  the 
world  of  its  power  and  confer  celebrity  on  its  arms. 
And  in  imitation  of  the  wise  of  antiquity  it  determined 
to  defend  New  England  by  attacking  the  French  in 
Acadie.  The  conquest  of  Port-Royal  was  at  lengtli 
resolved  on.  Lately  initiated  into  all  the  mysteries 
of  independency,  religious  and  political,  Sir  William 
Phipps  was  a})pointed  generalissimo  of  the  expedition 
in  opposition  to  all  competitors.  As  an  encouragement 
to  voluntiers  the  General  Court  oifered  the  one  half  ol' 
the  ])lunder,  and  payment  of  the  arrears  of  pay  to  the 
relations  of  the  slain. ^°  Seven  hundred  and  thirty  seven 
men  embarked  on  board  a  small  fleet,  the  largest  ships 
of  which  carried  forty  two  guns,  which  sailed  from  Nan- 
tasket  road  the  28  of  April  and  happily  arrived  before 
the  object  of  their  destination  the  10th  of  May.  Phips 
instantly  summoned  not  only  the  Fort,  but  the  inhabit- 
ants of  the  country  to  submit  to  the  Cro^vn  of  England  : 
Offering  security  for  their  lives,  their  freedom  and  their 
property  upon  laying  down  their  arms,  delivering  up 
the  fortifications,  and  taking  an  oath  of  allegiance. 
These  terms  were  too  flattering  to  men  who  were  unable 
to  resist  to  be  refused,  which  on  their  part  were  literal- 
ly performed :  But  these  promises  had  been  made  to 
the  unsuspecting,  with  an  intention  to  deceive  when 
they  could  no  longer  resist.  The  French  soldiers  were 
instantly  made  prisoners  ;  detachments  were  sent  out 
by  land  and  by  water  to  plunder,  because  by  the  spoils 
of  Acadie,  the  expence  of  the  expedition  was  to  be 
chiefly  discharged.  And  the  religious  troops  of  Massa- 
chusetts, never  once  reflecting  that  places  appro})riated 
to  the  worship  of  the  Deity,  are  by  men  of  every  persua- 
sion held  sacred,  "  riffled  the  Church,  cut  down  the 
cross,  prostrated  the  high  altar,  and  broke  tlie  images." 
The  general  detached  Alden  with  a  few  ships  along  the 
Acadian  coast  to  oblige  the  French  and  Indians  to  ac- 
knowledge themselves  subjects  of  William  and  Mary. 
When  the  inhabitants  on  the  river  of  Port  lloyal  had 
sworn  allegiance  to  the  English  Crown  they  were  direct- 


54  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

ed  to  choose  a  President  and  Council,  who  were  ap- 
proved of  and  instructed  by  Phips,  and  who  "were 
ordered  to  give  an  account  of  their  proceedings  to  the 
general  Court."  The  fort  dismantled,  and  the  spoils 
collected,  the  fleet  departed  and  arrived  at  Boston  the 
30  of  May.^^  Indifferent  spectators  of  these  events 
inquired :  "  What  mighty  good  had  resulted  from  an 
expedition,  that,  when  the  value  of  the  plunder  was 
deducted  from  its  expence  left  the  conquerors  £3,000 
in  debt  ?  For  as  no  garrisons  were  placed  to  retain 
actual  possession,  the  sovereignty  of  the  Crown  of  Eng- 
land was  as  nominal  now  as  it  had  formerly  been :  And 
the  Acadians,  who  have  been  at  all  times  placed  in  un- 
happy situations,  considered  Oaths  imposed  by  men, 
Avho  were  themselves  regardless  of  the  most  solemn 
conventions,  as  of  little  validity.  Owing  to  those  causes 
Port-Royal  was  easily  retaken  by  a  French  frigate  dur- 
ing the  year  1692.  In  the  mean  time  the  French  and 
their  Indian  allies  destroyed  by  fire  and  the  sword  what 
their  former  devastations  had  spared,  because  they  were 
now  animated  by  fresh  incentives.  While  Phipps  was 
busied  in  imposing  nugatory  engagements  and  erecting 
an  ideal  government,  subordinate  to  Massachusetts,  they 
again  took  and  burnt  the  town  and  Fort  of  Casco-Bay. 
The  wretched  planters,  whom  it  was  impossible  to  pro- 
tect, because  the  country  was  thinly  inhabited,  were 
either  carried  into  a  deplorable  captivity  or  obliged  to 
desert  habitations,  which  were  no  longer  tenable  :  And 
the  whole  province  of  Main,  except  only  the  town  of 
York,  was  relinquished  to  their  implacable  enemies. 
Yet  the  people  of  Boston  carried  on  a  constant  trade 
with  the  French  and  Indians,  during  this  horrid  war- 
fare, exchanging  for  peltry,  arms,  ammunition  and 
clothing,  because  they  were  actuated  entirely  by  the 
true  commercial  spirit. ^^  Elevated  nevertheless  by  the 
easy  ca})ture  of  a  fort  and  settlement  incapable  of  resist- 
ance, the  General  Court  was  emboldened  to  attempt  a 
conquest  of  greater  magnitude.  It  considered  a  vigor- 
ous impression  on  Canada  not  only  as  the  best  means  for 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  55 

putting  an  end  to  the  lamentable  devastations  which  it 
had  hitherto  been  unable  to  prevent :  But  above  all  it 
hoped  to  recommend  the  people  to  the  favour  of  a  King 
who  was  fond  of  soldiers,  and  to  obtain  the  reestablish- 
ment  of  their  chartered  rights,  since  their  exertions 
would  shew,  they  were  worthy  of  tliem.^^  As  early  in- 
deed as  the  first  of  April  it  had  detached  an  express  to 
England,  in  order  to  inform  the  administration  of  its 
preparations  against  Port-Royal,  to  solicit  a  supply  of 
warlike  stores,  and  to  give  assurances  of  its  resolution 
of  affording  their  utmost  assistance  in  the  reduction  of 
Canada,  should  the  King  think  proper  to  attempt  it. 
These  informations  and  professions  were  received  on  the 
20  of  May,  and  an  order  was  soon  after  issued,  permit- 
ting the  merchants  to  export  arms  and  ammunition  to 
Boston.  As  however  the  design  upon  Quebec  was 
built  not  only  on  the  final  success  against  Port-Royal, 
but  the  coopei'ation  of  William,  no  notice  was  taken  of 
a  project,  which  was  urged  with  difiidence  and  depended 
on  so  many  contingencies.^*  Yet  without  reflecting  that 
an  eftectual  answer  to  requisitions  transmitted  the  l)e- 
ginning  of  April  could  not  be  expected  before  the  first 
of  September,  the  General  Court  made  the  most  vigor- 
ous preparations  for  the  intended  expedition.  And  as 
it  did  not  escape  its  sagacity  how  much  the  ultimate 
success  of  its  measures  depended  on  an  attack  at  the 
same  time  against  Montreal,  it  had  the  address  to  procure 
the  concurrence  and  aid  of  New  York  and  Connecticut. 
Having  waited  with  anxiety  for  supplies  from  England  till 
the  9th  of  August,  Sir  William  Phipps  sailed  with  a 
fleet  of  30  vessels,  the  largest  of  which  carried  forty  four 
guns,  for  the  conquest  of  Quebeck  with  two  thousand 
three  hundred  men,  newly  raised  and  badly  appointed : 
But  he  relied  much  on  his  own  courage,  on  the  zeal  of 
his  troops,  on  the  weakness  of  that  city  of  which  he  had 
received  information.  Meanwhile  five  hundred  men, 
levied  by  the  two  provinces  before  mentioned,  with  fil- 
teen  hundred  Indians  were  conducted  by  Winthrop 
through  the  desert  to  the  margin  of  lake  Champlaui. 


56  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

But  here  he  discovered,  what  he  probably  foresaw,  that 
it  was  impossible  to  cross  this  mighty  barrier  without 
vessels  and  provisions,  which  Leisler  the  ruler  of  New 
York  had  promised  to  provide,  yet  unhappily  foro;ot  to 
perform.  That  general  returned  on  his  steps  to  Albany, 
because  he  could  not  remain  long  in  a  wilderness  with- 
out food.  And  now  from  commanding  an  army  he  was 
confined  by  Leisler  in  jail,  till  forcil:)ly  released  by  his 
soldiers,  and  he  was  rewarded  by  Connecticut,  his  native 
country,  because  it  approved  of  his  conduct,  as  much  as 
it  blamed  his  adversary.  The  Canadians  governed  by 
one  officer,  and  animated  by  one  spirit,  derided  the 
efforts  of  men  and  of  Colonies,  whose  disputes  prevented 
the  energy  of  Union,  whose  factions  led  them  generally 
to  controul  established  authority,  rather  than  to  annoy 
the  common  enemy. 

The  badness  of  the  weather  and  the  want  of  pilots 
prevented  Phipps  from  arriving  before  Quebec  sooner 
than  the  8th  of  October ;  when  the  winter  had  already 
commenced  with  the  severity  of  that  cliraate.^^  Had  he 
arrived  a  few  days  earlier  he  had  probably  acquired 
possession  of  that  City  without  resistance,  and  before 
Count  Frontenac,  who  was  then  at  Montreal,  had 
heard  of  his  approach.  But  the  tediousness  of  his  voy- 
age gave  time  to  that  great  Commander  to  complete 
the  defences  of  the  town,  and  an  opportunity  to  the 
Militia  headed  by  a  gallant  gentry  to  assemble  around 
him,  for  the  defence  of  all  that  is  dear  to  men.  Noth- 
ing could  be  more  wise  than  the  plan  adopted  by 
Count  Frontenac  for  the  safety  of  that  Capital.  While 
he  detaclied  his  irregulars  either  to  line  the  coast,  or 
to  lie  in  ambush  to  harrass  his  enemies  in  their  ap- 
proach, he  took  post  with  his  army  between  the  river 
Charles,  and  the  town ;  in  order  to  entice  them  to  cross 
that  dangerous  stream  which  is  only  fordable  uj^on  the 
recess  of  the  tide,  to  fall  upon  tliem  during  the  disorder 
which  this  would  naturally  produce,  and  to  prevent 
their  retreat  while  he  insured  liis  own."  Pliipps  soon 
sent  a  summons  to  the  governor  general,  dictated  by  the 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  57 

Chaplains  of  the  army  with  that  ignorance  of  the  world 
and  of  a-ffairs  peculiar  to  gownsmen  which  has  so  often 
proved  fatal  to  armies :  Demanding  a  surrender  of  the 
town,  of  the  royal  and  private  stores,  of  all  their  estates 
and  persons  to  his  disposal ;  assuring  him  however,  that, 
this  performed,  he  might  expect  mercy  as  a  Christian, 
according  to  what  may  be  found  for  his  Majestys  ser- 
vice, and  the  subjects  security.  But  Sir  William  did 
not  advert  in  the  height  of  his  zeal,  that  he  had  only 
offered  those  terms  to  gallant  men,  who  were  prepared 
to  repel  his  assault,  which  humanity  woidd  grant  to  the 
disarmed  in  the  moment  of  victory.  And  his  proposals 
were  received  with  that  mixture  of  contempt  and  indig- 
nation which  confident  rudeness  always  excites  in  the 
wise  and  brave.  The  younger  officers  exclaimed :  That 
the  messenger  should  be  treated  as  the  envoy  of  a  Cor- 
sair, since  Phips  bore  arms  against  his  lawful  sovereign, 
and  had  acted  at  Port  Royal  as  a  true  pirate,  because 
lie  had  violated  a  ca]3itulation  contrary  to  his  promise 
and  to  the  law  of  nations. ^^  But  though  there  was  but 
too  much  foundation  for  these  reproa(^iies.  Count  Fron- 
tenac  answered  with  a  moderation  more  worthy  of  him  :^^ 
That  as  he  considered  the  Prince  of  Orange  as  an  usurp- 
er he  could  acknowledne  no  other  kino-  of  Enoiand  than 
James  2d,  who  was  honoured  with  the  protection  of  his 
master  ;  that  were  he  disposed  to  accept  of  such  humil- 
iating terms  his  brave  officers  would  not  consent,  but 
would  rather  advise  him  to  give  no  faith  to  the  words 
of  a  man  who  had  broken  a  capitulation  and  violated 
the  faith  which  he  owed  to  his  prince.  Both  parties 
now  prepared,  the  one  to  assault,  the  other  to  defend 
Quebeck.  On  the  subsequent  day,  about  fourteen  hun- 
dred men  were  landed  under  the  conduct  of  Walley 
who  was  instantly  attacked  but  easily  secured  his  land- 
ing. He  advanced  towards  the  river  Charles,  yet 
though  he  was  assailed  on  all  sides  by  the  light  troops 
he  bravely  repelled  his  enemies.  He  now  discovered 
however  that  though  he  had  driven  back  the  advanced 
parties,  it  would  be  extremely  imprudent  to  engage  the 


58  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

main  body,  which  was  formed  under  excellent  com- 
manders ready  to  dispute  his  progress.  Phipps  in  the 
mean  while  gallantly  attacked  the  town  with  his  ships, 
which  after  a  severe  cannonade  were  obliged  to  retire  in 
confusion,  because  their  force  was  unequal  to  the  object. 
Their  scanty  ammunition  was  now  nearly  expended ; 
sickness  began  to  prevail ;  the  climate  fought  against 
them :  And  on  the  third  night  after  their  landing,  the 
troops  were  reimbarked  with  precipitation ;  leaving  live 
field  pieces  to  the  French  as  trophies  of  victory.^"  When 
the  liberal  minded  of  other  nations  heard  of  this  event 
they  rejoiced ;  that  politeness,  bravery,  and  conduct  had 
triumphed  over  barbarism,  rashness,  and  folly.  Scarce- 
ly had  the  fleet  departed  for  Boston  when  one  of  the 
usual  storms  of  that  season  heaped  innumerable  afllic- 
tions  on  the  unfortunate,  and  the  admiral  alone  arrived 
on  the  15  of  November,  to  give  his  countrymen  the  sad 
tidings  of  the  event  of  an  enterprize,  so  contrary  to  the 
expectations  of  every  one,  because  all  had  been  confi- 
dent of  that  success  for  which  the  faithful  had  ardently 
prayed.  Few  of  the  troops  had  felt  the  stroke  of  the 
enemy  in  proportion  to  the  numbers  that  afterwards 
perished  with  disease,  wliich  was  the  more  deplorable, 
because  it  infected  the  inhabitants  and  spread  desolation 
among  a  dispirited  people. ^^ 

The  loss  of  reputation  was  not  the  only  misfortune 
which  the  General  Court  had  now  to  lament.  The 
expences  of  the  expedition  were  calculated  at  one  hun- 
dred thousand  pounds,  for  the  payment  of  which  no 
funds  had  been  provided,  nor  was  it  possible  to  raise 
taxes  equal  to  the  demands  that  were  earnestly  made ; 
because  the  soldiers  as  they  arrived  clamoured  for  their 
well  earned  pay.  Extreme  parsimony  generally  defeats 
its  own  aims  :  While  that  body  flattered  itself  with  the 
hopes  of  conquering  Canada,  and  expected  in  return 
every  favour  from  a  warlike  prince,  it  relied  too  mu^h 
on  the  plunder  of  an  unconquered  enemy  to  defray  tlie 
expence  of  the  conquest.  Had  the  government  and 
officers  contined  their  views  to  success  alone  they  would 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  59 

have  generously  offered  Count  Frontenac  and  his  troops 
the  honours  of  Avar,  to  the  Canadians  their  privileges 
and  estates :  But  the  terms  proposed  to  that  gallant 
commander  wounded  his  pride,  the  conditions  dictated 
to  the  people  confirmed  their  resolution.  Amid  the  vex- 
ations of  disappointment  and  the  cries  of  distress  tlie 
General  Court  passed  a  law  in  December  1690;^^  ap- 
pointing commissioners  "  to  grant  printed  bills  to  ])ev- 
sons  desiring  them  in  payment  of  debts  due  by  the 
country ; "  declaring  the  paper  of  equal  value  as  treasure 
and  as  such  to  be  received  in  payment.  It  ought  to  be 
remembered  that  this  was  the  first  paper-money  which 
had  been  issued  within  the  English  Empire :  And  it 
did  not  surprize  any  one  when  those  disorders  ensued 
which  never  fail  to  result  fi'om  innovations  in  political 
economy.  "  The  notes  we  are  assured  would  not  com- 
mand money,  nor  commodities  at  money -price  :  The 
soldiers  got  no  more  than  twelve  or  fourteen  shillings  in 
the  pound ; "  though  tliey  are  said  to  have  afterwards 
become  better  than  specie,  the  discount  was  not  made 
upJ^  The  rigid  moralists  exclaimed :  That  it  is  always 
unjust  to  compel  the  creditor  to  accej^t  that  as  a  pay- 
ment Avhich  is  subject  to  depreciation,  since  nations  as 
well  as  individuals  equally  become  bankrupts  when  they 
pay  less  than  they  owe.  Sir  William  Phipps  soon  after 
departed  for  England  to  plead  his  own  and  his  countrys 
merits. 

The  conduct  of  Massachusetts  has  been  at  all  times 
so  much  above  the  common  rules  of  human  action  that 
there  seems  an  impropriety  in  judging  of  its  late  trans- 
actions by  those  principles  commonly  acknowledged  in 
the  world.  Yet  if  we  consider  that  colony  merely  as  a 
subordinate  territory,  which  ought  to  have  waited  in 
quiet  the  decision  of  the  parent-state,  the  revolution 
must  be  deemed  no  less  irregular  in  theory  than  perni- 
cious in  its  j^ractical  efl:ect.  With  the  caution  natural 
to  William,  he  gave  his  approbation  only  to  that  part 
of  its  jDroceedings  which  liad  for  its  end  the  proclama- 
tion of  his  title ;  and  he  conferred  no  other  authority 


60  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

on  the  government  which  the  colonists  had  established 
for  themselves,  than  to  preserve  internal  peace  till  fur- 
ther orders.  Since  aggregates  of  men  however,  as  well 
as  individuals,  possess  the  right  of  self  defence  the  gen- 
eral court  acted  properly  in  defending  the  country, 
though  the  disbanding  of  that  part  of  the  late  army  which 
was  on  the  English  establishment  was  altogether  inde- 
fensible :  Nor  could  the  depredations  before  mentioned 
without  special  authority  from  the  sovereign  be  justified 
by  any  just  maxim  of  subordination,  and  were  therefore 
considered  by  foreign  nations  as  piracies.  The  estab- 
lishment of  governments  inferior  to  the  jurisdiction  of 
Massachusetts,  as  Acadie  was,  and  Canada  would  have 
been,  was  perfectly  consistent  with  those  projects  of  in- 
dependence on  which  it  acted  as  much  now,  though  the 
names  of  William  and  Mary  were  used,  as  it  anciently 
did,  when  the  regal  power  was  contemned.  Let  us  not 
however  think  meanly  of  those  expeditions,  though  we 
ought  not  to  approve  of  the  spirit  of  aggrandizement 
whence  they  proceeded.  The  other  colonies  conjoined, 
w^ere  then  unable  to  have  made  so  considerable  exertions. 
And  they  will  remain  monuments  to  posterity  of  what 
small  communities  are  able  to  perform,  when  left  to  their 
own  management,  and  the  spirit  of  the  people  concur ; 
though  the  attack  on  Canada  ended  as  might  have  been 
expected  from  the  rashness  of  the  undertaking  and  from 
the  means  employed  being  wholly  unequal  to  the  end. 
The  most  sagacious  of  those  days  did  not  forsee,  that  a 
descendent  of  Lewis  14th,  Avho  considered  William  as  an 
Usurper  and  his  adherents  as  traitors,  would  in  so  little 
a  period  of  years  be  leagued  with  the  posterity  of  the 
invaders  of  Canada ;  in  order  to  destroy  that  power 
Avhich  had  given  them  existence,  protected  their  infancy, 
and  reared  them  to  manhood. 

While  tlie  war  was  thus  prosecuted  with  various 
fortune,  and  Massachusetts  felt  the  complicated  distress 
which  the  rashness  of  her  rulers  had  entailed  on  her,  it 
required  tlie  usual  address  of  the  General  Court  to  ward 
off  the  blows  aimed  by  its  opponents  in  England  to  prose- 


CHALMERS  S    POLITICAL    ANNALS.  61 

cute  successfully  the  restoration  of  the  former,  or  the  con- 
cession of  a  new  charter,  because  every  loss  or  misfortune 
was  attributed  rather  to  misconduct  than  to  weakness. 
In  January  1G90,  Oakes  and  Cooke  were  appointed  addi- 
tional agents  to  those  already  in  England  :  And  they 
Avere  empowered  in  language  which  shewed  the  extent 
of  its  views,  generally  to  defend  the  conduct  of  the 
colony,  with  regard  to  the  revolution,  and  to  negotiate 
the  public  affairs,  but  particularly  "  to  solicit  in  Parlia- 
ment^ or  otherwise,  the  continuation  of  the  ancient 
charter  and  the  addition  of  new  privileges."  ^*  Prompt- 
ed either  by  a  sense  of  former  wrongs  or  by  the  fear  of 
present  injury,  should  Andros  and  the  other  state-pris- 
oners appear  at  court  during  that  critical  season,  pre- 
tences were  found  to  detain  them  for  two  months  after 
it  had  received  orders  to  send  them  to  England. ^^ 
When  all  parties  at  length  appeared  before  the  Lords 
of  the  Committee  of  plantations,  the  agents  declined  to 
make  any  formal  complaint  against  them,  because  their 
Counsel,  the  modest  and  learned  Somers,  assured  them, 
that  their  accusations  could  not  be  supported.  William 
dismissed  a  prosecution  "that  was  neither  signed  nor 
owned,"  and  discharged  the  prisoners.  It  is  remark- 
able, that  the  accusation  was  levelled  rather  against  the 
validity  of  the  commission  and  instructions  of  Andros 
than  the  irregularity  of  his  conduct,  as  inconsistent  with 
either :  The  attack  was  on  the  form  of  government 
rather  than  the  oppressions  of  the  governor.^®  Thus 
ended  a  prosecution  from  which  the  artful  had  taught 
the  credulous  to  expect  that  their  wrongs  would  be 
avenged  by  shedding  the  blood  of  the  objects  of  their 
hate.  The  real  friends  of  liberty  lamented  :  That  while 
the  zealous  asserted  lier  rights,  they  should  have  de- 
prived others  of  freedom  in  a  struggle  which  had  the 
natural  and  social  rights  of  men  for  its  object. 

The  real  cliaracter  of  William  had  not  escaped  the 
sagacity  of  Mather.  And  from  the  moment  that  the 
committee  of  plantations  gave  its  opinion  against  the 
restoration   of  the    original    charter,    so   beloved   and 


62  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

deplored,  he  despaired  of  procuring  a  restitution  from  a 
prince  whose  attachment  to  prerogative  he  beheld  with 
regret.  As  a  faithful  agent  of  his  country  he  now  turn- 
ed his  unwearied  attention  to  the  securing  of  several  of 
the  nobility,  the  principal  commoners,  the  whole  body 
of  dissenting  ministers  ;^^  in  order  to  procure  from  the 
Parliament  what  he  could  not  obtain  from  the  King. 
Leagued  with  the  Whigs,  who  with  a  view  to  secure  for 
ever  their  present  power,  introduced  in  December  1689 
the  famous  corporation -bill,  the  agents  had  the  influence 
to  jjrocure  a  clause  for  restoring  the  Charters  of  New 
England.  But  the  ministers  not  only  opposed  this  pro- 
ject, because  it  no  less  affected  the  prerogative  than  the 
dependence  of  the  colonies,  but  by  throwing  the  influ- 
ence of  the  court  into  the  scale  of  the  Tories  the  bill  was 
finally  rejected,  in  January  1690  : — while  the  Whigs 
were  mortified,  the  hopes  of  the  agents  were  for  ever 
dashed. ^^  Thus  at  that  great  era  Massachusetts  attempted 
with  the  aid  of  the  Revolution  Whigs  to  establish  her 
government  on  the  solid  foundation  of  an  act  of  Parlia- 
ment. Yet  it  is  not  easy  to  perceive  what  good  could 
have  resulted  to  the  colony  from  this  measure,  had  not 
the  Sovereignty  of  the  supreme  legislature  been  admitted 
and  the  efficacy  of  its  power  to  bind  every  commission 
of  the  Crown  been  acknowledged.  As  there  now  re- 
mained no  expectation  of  procuring  the  restoration  of 
their  ancient  charter  it  was  long  debated  among  the 
Agents  whether  to  apply  for  any.  But,  since  it  is  the 
duty  of  wise  men  to  accept  what  is  in  their  power  to 
obtain,  it  was  at  length  determined  to  solicit  a  new 
grant,  with  as  many  of  the  ancient  privileges  as  possible. 
As  a  King  of  England  could  exert  no  legislative  autlior- 
ity  over  the  people  of  New  England,  because  they  were 
subjects ;  as  a  local  legislature  was  therefore  necessary 
for  local  purposes,  they  were  constitutionally  entitled  to 
a  vote  in  the  making  of  laws  for  themselves :  But  of 
right  they  could  claim  no  more ;  they  were  entitled  to 
no  portion  of  the  executive  power.  And  good  policy 
should  have  given  to  them  the  same  rational  constitu- 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  63 

tion  under  which  the  other  English  colonies  had  long 
flourished,  because  they  were  free.  We  shall  find  the 
subsequent  struggle  between  William  and  the  Agents 
to  consist  of  mutual  endeavours,  the  one  to  retain  what 
he  had  a  right  to  enjoy,  the  others  to  regain  for  their 
countrymen  as  large  a  share  of  the  executive  authority 
as  could  be  wrung  from  a  prince,  jealous  of  his  power. 

The  petition  and  proposals  of  the  Agents  were  at 
length  delivered  in  December  1690,  though  one  of  them 
refused  to  concur.  But  as  it  did  not  escape  the  pene- 
tration of  the  Committee  of  Colonies,  to  whom  they 
were  referred,  that  what  was  now  asked  under  the  form 
of  a  new  grant  contained  the  old  with  additional  privi- 
leges, it  was  deemed  prudent  to  request  the  determina- 
tion of  that  monarch,  whether  he  would  have  a  governor 
of  his -own  appointment  or  confer  the  power  of  making 
laws  wholly  on  the  people  and  the  officers  appointed  by 
them.  William,  as  probably  was  foreseen,  preferred  the 
former  alternative.  Agreeably  to  this  intention  the 
attorney  general  prepared  a  sketch,  which  was  corrected 
by  the  Committee.  But  as  the  agents  insisted  on  vari- 
ous alterations,  tending  to  raise  the  power  of  the  people 
V)y  defalcations  from  the  prerogative  of  the  prince, 
Mary  ordered  the  whole  to  be  transmitted  to  Holland 
for  the  royal  pleasure.  Meanwhile  Sir  William  Phips 
made  that  political  use  of  the  expedition  against  Que- 
bec for  which  probably  it  had  been  only  intended :  He 
stated  that  the  former  services  of  Massaclmsetts,  which 
was  ready  to  engage  in  another  expedition,  were  the 
proposed  assistance  given  and  her  former  rights  restored, 
so  as  to  empower  her  to  raise  men  and  money  :  Nor  did 
he  forget  to  name  himself  for  commander,  because  he 
had  acquired  knowledge  from  experience.  The  Secre- 
tary of  State  not  long  after  informed  the  Committee 
that  the  King  had  approved  of  their  proceedings ;  and 
that  the  agents  had  ac(|uiesced  in  the  royal  pleasure  :^^ 
Thus  prudently  submitting  after  violent  debates  among 
themselves  to  what  they  perceived  it  was  in  vain  any 
longer  to  oppose,  and  exerting  themselves  to  the  last  to 


64  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

procure  for  their  countrymen  as  large  a  portion  of  power 
as  that  tenacious  monarch  coukl  be  induced  to  relin- 
quish. Yet  it  will  be  found  that  the  Charter  which 
was  not  long  after  granted  did  little  honour  to  his  polit- 
ical sagacity  or  to  the  prudence  of  his  ministers. 

The  terms  of  the  patent  being  at  length  settled  to  the 
satisfaction  of  all  parties  passed  the  seals  on  the  9th  of 
October  1691,  after  a  discussion  rather  tedious  than 
attentive  of  ten  months/"  It  recited  the  Charter  to  the 
Plymouth  Company ;  the  subsequent  grant  of  Charles 
1st ;  the  judgement  of  the  Court  of  Chancery  by  which 
it  was  cancelled ;  and  the  application  of  the  agents  for 
such  privileges  as  should  most  conduce  to  the  royal  ser- 
vice and  to  the  welfare  of  New  England.  It  incorporat- 
ed Massachusetts,  New  Plymouth,  Main,  Nova  Scotia, 
and  other  territories  into  one  province  by  the  name  of 
Massachusetts-bay ;  to  be  holden  of  the  manor  of  East 
Greenwich  in  common  soccage.  And  there  were  at  the 
same  time  confirmed  all  lands  and  hereditaments  former- 
ly granted  to  individuals  or  to  corporate  bodies.  Of 
these  extensive  countries  the  legislative  power  Avas  in- 
vested in  a  general  court,  which  should  meet  annually 
in  ]^.Iay,  which  should  be  composed  of  a  governor,  of 
twenty  eight  assistants,  and  of  assembly  men  chosen  by 
every  town :  And  it  was  empowered  to  make  laws  for 
the  government  of  the  people  and  for  defence  of  the 
Country ;  so  as  they  should  not  be  repugnant  to  the 
jurisprudence  of  England,  and  should  be  transmitted  to 
England  for  the  royal  approbation  within  three  years  ; 
to  impose  reasonable  taxes  on  the  persons  or  estates  of 
the  proprietors  to  be  disposed  of  by  the  governor  and 
council :  The  assistants  were  to  consist  of  such  persons 
holding  lands  within  the  province  as  should  be  chosen 
by  the  Assembly  and  approved  by  the  governor.  But 
the  power  of  appointing  the  governor.  Deputy  governor, 
and  Secretary  was  reserved  to  the  Crown,  because  Wil- 
liam deemed  this  reservation  sufficient  to  preserve  his 
own  power  and  the  dependence  of  the  people.  The 
governor  was  empowered  to  nominate  Judges,  justices 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  65 

of  the  peace,  Sheriffs  and  other  officers  belonging  to  the 
Council  or  to  the  Courts  of  justice  with  the  advice  of 
his  assistants.  Yet  the  General  Court  was  authorized 
to  appoint  all  other  officers ;  to  erect  courts  of  justice 
for  the  decision  of  affairs  civil  and  military,  but  with  an 
appeal  to  the  King  in  council  in  matters  of  the  value  of 
£300  sterling  :  And  it  was  empowered  to  grant  the  lands 
included  in  these  extensive  dominions.  The  governor  and 
council  however  were  enabled  to  take  probate  of  wills 
and  to  grant  letters  of  administration.  Appointed  Com- 
mander of  the  Militia  was  authorized  to  array  the  in- 
habitants and  to  conduct  them  against  their  enemies  and 
to  pursue  them  even  beyond  the  limits  of  the  province : 
But  martial  law  was  not  to  be  executed  without  the 
consent  of  the  Council,  nor  were  the  inhabitants  to  be 
carried  out  of  the  province  without  their  consent.  In 
the  absence  of  the  governor  and  Lieutenant  governor 
the  greater  number  of  the  Council  were  empowered  to 
assume  the  administration.  The  admiralty  jurisdiction 
was  reserved  to  the  hio-h  admiral  of  Eno-land.  Persons 
born  or  residing  within  the  province  were  declared  to 
be  entitled  to  the  immunities  of  natural  subjects. ^^  To 
all  Christians  liberty  of  conscience  was  gTanted  except 
only  to  papists.  Freedom  of  Fishing  on  the  Coasts  of 
New  Eno-land,  of  takino-  wood  and  of  erectino-  buildinsrs  on 
waste  lands  was  reserved  to  every  subject  of  the  Crown. 
And  for  the  better  providing  of  masts  for  the  royal 
navy  all  trees  then  gi'owing  on  lands  not  granted  to  pri- 
vate persons  were  reserved  to  the  Crown. 

Such  then  is  the  substance  of  the  charter  which  was 
conceded  to  the  solicitation  of  the  agents  after  so  much 
deliberation  :  And  thus  was  Massachusetts  for  the  first 
time  erected  into  a  province  of  the  English  Empire,  and 
its  inhabitants  were  acknowledoed  to  be  Eno-lish  sub- 
jects.  Yet  no  good  reason  was  then  assigned  for  grant- 
ing what  good  policy  should  have  sternly  refused.  Had 
the  interest  of  England  rather  than  the  influence  of 
intrigue  decided  with  regard  to  the  reestablishment  of 
the  government  of  this  colony,  the  principles  of  the  peo- 
5 


66  THE  CONTINUATION    OF 

pie,  their  opposition  to  the  laws  of  England,  and  their 
desires  of  inclependence  should  have  been  chiefly  regard- 
ed. Far  from  granting  larger  privileges  to  them  than 
to  the  other  plantations,  more  friendly  to  England,  a 
proper  balance  should  have  been  erected  to  counteract 
the  spirit  of  democracy,  so  continual  in  its  operations 
and  so  baneful  in  its  effects.  These  views  would  have 
led  to  the  appointment  of  a  governor  and  Council  by  a 
Commission  and  instructions,  similar  to  those  of  other 
provinces,  because  they  might  have  been  changed  and 
improved,  rather  than  by  a  charter,  which,  having  once 
passed  the  great  Seal,  was  irrevocal)le  by  the  grant- 
or, however  inconvenient  or  dangerous.  If  we  com- 
pare the  present  with  the  ancient  patent  of  Massa- 
chusetts we  shall  find  it  greatly  su^^erior,  because  more 
liberal  and  extensive ;  if  we  compare  it  with  that 
of  Pensylvania  we  shall  find  no  cause  to  prefer  tlie 
production  of  the  politic  William  to  that  of  the  careless 
Charles  :  In  the  last  the  rights  of  the  nation  and  the 
powers  of  the  legislature  were  reserved  with  an  accuracy 
which  does  honour  to  the  illustrious  judge  who  revised 
it :  Not  a  clause  of  the  former  but  has  given  rise  to  con- 
troversy, owing  partly  to  its  defects,  but  perhaps  more 
to  the  contentious  spirit  of  the  people  to  wliom  it  was 
given.  Yet  the  opinion  which  they  formed  of  it  seems 
to  evince  how  prone  mankind  are  to  attach  their  venera- 
tion to  names  rather  than  to  the  essence  of  things,  and 
the  preference  which  they  gave  their  ancient  charter 
and  government  shews  that  they  regarded  both  witli 
the  ardent  zeal  of  enthusiasts.  Happy  had  they  at  all 
times  exercised  the  extraordinary  privileges  then  con- 
ferred with  a  moderation  and  regard  to  the  laws  equal 
to  the  singular  address  Avith  which  they  had  been 
gained. 

In  addition  to  these  favours,  William  permitted  the 
Agents  to  appoint  for  the  present  those  officers  whose 
nomination  had  been  reserved  to  the  Crown.  The  ser- 
vices and  zeal  of  Sir  William  Phipps,  a  native  of  New 
England,  of  mean  birtli,  and  of  meaner  accomplishments. 


CHALMERS  S    POLITICAL    ANNALS.  67 

were  now  therefore  rewarded  with  the  government  *^  of 
a  province,  the  fame  and  power  of  which  he  had  endea- 
voured to  extend.  And  in  November  1691,  he  received 
a  commission  and  instructions,^^  tliat  were  founded  on 
the  Charter  and  that  varied  from  those  of  other  gover- 
nors only  as  they  were  more  restrained,  because  the 
executive  poAver  had  been  extremely  curtailed.  The 
strength  of  Canada  had  been  lately  felt,  while  the  de- 
fenceless state  of  the  colonies  of  New  England  notwith- 
standing their  populousness  Avas  perceived  and  lamented. 
In  order  therefore  that  the  protection  of  all  might  result 
from  the  union  of  all,  Phipps  was  at  the  same  time 
appointed  commander  in  chief  of  the  militia  and  fortifi- 
cations of  Rhode  Island,  Connecticut,  and  New  Hamp- 
shire :'^^  The  crown  lawyers,  who  approved  of  this  com- 
mission never  reflecting,  that  though  the  military  com- 
mand within  every  dominion  of  the  crown  of  right 
belonged  to  the  crown  yet  that  the  predecessors  of 
William  with  a  regretted  impolicy  had  transferred 
it  to  those  who  were  too  tenacious  to  part  easily  with 
their  Chartered  privileges.  And  to  tlie  prayers  of  a 
people,  who  have  boasted  that  they  had  never  re- 
ceived any  assistance  from  England,  were  granted  Ord- 
nance, Warlike  Stores,  and  Ships,  which  were  placed 
under  the  command  of  the  governor  for  the  protection 
of  their  coasts. ^*^  But  at  the  same  time  that  Phipps 
sailed  with  a  charter  for  the  procurement  of  which  the 
good  people  of  Massachusetts  had  so  long  fasted  and 
prayed  a  foundation  was  then  laid  for  future  controver- 
sy ;  which  Cooke,  one  of  the  discontented  Agents,  then 
commenced,  by  warning  his  countrymen  "  to  be  careful 
not  to  perpetuate  any  public  revenue,  or  any  officers 
salary,  or  large  fees."*^  The  great  reach  of  thought 
which  then  enlightened  the  leading  men  of  that  colony 
placed  William  and  his  ministers  in  a  light  extremely 
obscure  and  therefore  disadvantageous  :  Sagacity,  per- 
severance, and  address  are  virtues,  which  must  at  all 
times  be  admired  wherever  they  are  found. 

During  these  various  transactions,  civil  and  military, 


68  THE  CONTINUATION   OF 

similar  causes  produced  similar  events  within  the  neigh- 
bouring colony  on  the  southwest.  Information  was  no 
sooner  received  in  England  from  the  late  Coimcil  of  the 
revolution  at  New  York,  of  its  dangerous  situation,  of 
the  inconveniences  of  its  union  with  New  England,  than 
it  was  determined  to  establish  a  separate  government, 
and  to  send  thither  not  only  a  governor  but  two  compa- 
nies of  soldiers  in  the  room  of  those  which  had  lately  been 
disbanded.  But  though  Colonel  Sloughter  was  named 
for  that  office  in  September  1689,  so  disordered  were 
the  aifairs  of  England  that  the  frigate  which  had  been 
appointed  to  carry  him  beyond  the  Atlantic  was  sent  as 
a  convoy  to  Ireland.*^  And  the  people  of  that  Province 
had  a  fine  opportunity  during  the  long  misrule  of  Leis- 
ler  to  decide  whether  despotism  or  anarchy  is  the  last 
evil.  Happy  had  the  miseries  of  civil  discord  been  the 
only  ills  which  they  soon  had  reason  to  deplore.  When 
the  bonds  of  alliance  between  England  and  France 
were  dissolved  by  the  Revolution  and  the  neutrality  of 
the  colonies  had  ceased,  Lewis  14th  determined  on  the 
conquest  of  New  York,  iDecause  he  was  animated  no  less 
by  resentment  than  by  hopes  of  making  an  early  acqui- 
sition of  a  country  rendered  weak  by  its  distractions. 
Often  had  the  Canadians  felt  the  stroke  of  the  hatchet ; 
lately  had  their  country  been  desolated  by  the  five  con- 
federated tribes  :  And  while  their  distresses  moved  the 
pity  of  their  prince  they  implored  that  protection  which 
he  alone  could  grant.  It  was  at  the  same  time  suggest- 
ed to  him,  that  vain  was  it  to  think  of  extending  the 
boundaries  of  Canada  while  the  five  nations  formed  a 
barrier  to  his  progress,  because  they  were  influenced  by 
the  governors  of  New  York.  In  order  therefore  to  pro- 
mote all  his  views  he  sent  the  experienced  Count  Fron- 
tenac  to  Canada  during  the  summer  of  1689,  to  whom 
he  confided  the  execution  of  his  projects.  But  the 
French  fleet  intended  for  the  attack  on  New  York  was 
happily  delayed  by  one  of  those  storms,  which  have  so 
often  proved  fatal  to  the  naval  armies  of  France  on  the 
American  coast.     While  the  arrival  of  that  aged  noble- 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  69 

man  inspired  the  Canadians  with  fresh  vigour :  "While 
he  employed  every  art  to  reestablish  peace  with  the 
confederated  Indians  their  most  formidable  foes,  he  de- 
tached parties,  composed  of  hunters  and  savages  to  fall 
on  Albany  and  New  England  during  the  winter.  And 
he  foresa^v,  that  the  incurable  dissentions  of  his  enemies 
would  expose  them  feeble  and  unprotected  to  their 
incursions/^ 

Meanwhile  the  Five  nations  perceived  the  prepara- 
tions which  were  made  to  give  weight  to  his  proposals 
of  peace  without  dismay.  And  the}^  convened  a  great 
Council  at  Onondaga,  in  December  1689,  to  decide 
whether  they  should  accept  of  peace  or  continue  the 
war :  Inviting  thither  their  favourite  Schuyler  tl\e 
Mayor  of  Albany,  because  they  had  predetermined  with 
a  spirit  worthy  of  polished  nations  ^'to  resolve  nothing 
without  tbe  consent  of  those  bound  in  the  chain  of  ami- 
ty witli  them.""  On  this  interesting  occasion  the  magis- 
trates of  that  town,  with  an  inattention  which  proceed- 
ed from  the  distraction  of  the  times  sent  messengers, 
who  possessed  neither  talents  nor  consideration,  to  dis- 
suade that  sagacious  people  from  listening  to  the  flatter- 
ies of  Frontenac  :  And  with  the  true  spirit  of  Dutch- 
men they  transmitted  by  their  envoys  a  quantity  of 
merchandize  to  be  sold  at  Onondaga.  But  no  measure 
could  have  given  greater  offence  to  warriors,  who,  judg- 
ing of  all  traders  by  the  conduct  of  those  with  whom 
they  had  trafficked,  deemed  them  unworthy  of  trust, 
because  they  considered  all  merchants  as  unfit  to  be 
emploj'cd  in  public  affairs.  And  with  the  accustomed 
good  sense  of  that  assembly  it  resolved  to  preserve  the 
friendship  of  the  English,  but  to  keep  the  means  of 
making  peace  with  the  French  in  its  own  power. ^°  After 
a  march  of  incredible  perseverance  and  fatigue  through 
a  desert  covered  with  snow  the  Canadians,  conducted 
by  Hervile,  surprized  Schenectady,  which  was  then  the 
frontier  settlement  in  February  1690.  And  regardless 
of  the  boasted  humanity  of  their  nation  they  carried 
the  torch  through  its  streets :    They  massacred   sixty 


70  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

unresisting  persons  without  distinction  of  age  or  sex. 
Yet  this  barbarous  enterprize,  which,  while  it  dishon- 
oured their  King,  brought  so  little  advantage  to  their 
country,  passed  not  wholly  unavenged.  A  hundred 
Mohawks  pursued  the  invaders  of  their  country  and  re- 
taliated on  their  rear-guard  what  they  had  inflicted  on 
others.  Amid  the  triumph  of  victory  these  gallant 
warriors  exclaimed  with  a  mixture  of  pity  and  con- 
tempt: How  feeble  and  helpless  are  the  children  of 
labour  while  the  storm  of  war  passes  over  them  as  a 
whirlwind.  When  the  deputies  of  the  five  nations  ar- 
rived not  long  after  at  Albany  "to  wipe  away  the  tears 
of  the  afflicted  "  according  to  their  custom,  they  found 
the  inhabitants  preparing  to  abandon  their  town  and  to 
seek  shelter  in  their  capital.  But  the  timely  appearance 
of  tlie  friends  of  their  adversity  inspired  a  resolution 
worthy  of  men  who  listened  with  satisfaction  to  coun- 
sels which  recommended  to  the  various  colonies  "  vigour 
and  unanimity."  ^^  Roused  at  length  by  this  fatal  in- 
cursion a  convention  of  delegates  for  a  great  part  of 
the  province  assembled  under  the  authority  of  Leisler  in 
April  1690.  But  it  was  in  vain  for  this  body  to  impose 
taxes  for  the  defence  of  the  Colony,  because  the  legality 
of  the  imposition  by  such  an  authority  was  denied.  And 
an  explanatory  ordinance  was  passed  at  a  subsequent 
dav  because  "  the  people  had  not  obeyed  the  former." 
Yet  little  good  could  be  expected  from  these  measures 
while  Leisler  was  obliged  to  use  the  decisive  influence 
of  military  force  to  preserve  his  power  even  within  the 
city  of  New  York  over  those  who  detested  his  person 
and  abhorred  his  usurpation.  As  he  owed  liis  present 
elevation  chiefly  to  the  counsels  and  intrigues  of  New 
England  he  now  experienced  an  attention  and  aid,  which 
she  seldom  gave  to  governors  of  royal  appointment. 
Connecticut  promised  to  send  two  companies  of  soldiers 
for  the  defence  of  Albany.  And  Massachusetts,  New 
Plymouth,  New  York  and  Connecticut,  agreed  in  May 
1690  to  raise  855  men  for  mutual  preservation.  But 
neither  the  prudent  admonitions  of  their  Indian  allies 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  71 

nor  a  sense  of  danger  could  moderate  the  frantic  tem- 
per of  Leisler  or  reconcile  the  minds  of  men  to  his  com- 
mand who  deemed  themselves  insulted  and  oppressed/^ 
And  the  confederate  tribes  were  left  to  struggle  alone 
against  the  implacable  enemy  of  all  parties,  because  to 
the  animosities  of  all  the  interests  of  all  were  sacri- 
ficed. 

Amid  these  distractions  Sloughter  was  joyfully  re- 
ceived by  every  one,  except  only  the  friends  of  Leisler, 
in  March  1691.  And  he  found  that  great  numbers  had 
drawn  their  swords  to  support  the  royal  authority  and 
at  the  same  time  to  pull  down  what  they  deemed  a 
tyranny,  since  they  had  never  consented  to  its  establish- 
ment. He  immediately  published  his  commission  in 
the  usual  form.  He  found  the  province  groaning  under 
the  pressure  of  its  contentions  foreign  and  domestic; 
the  Mohawks,  who  were  weary  of  a  disastrous  war,  were 
ready  to  accept  of  any  terms  of  peace  from  their  potent 
enemies,  because  they  had  been  unsupported :  Yet  he  saw 
people  enow  who  were  capable  to  destroy  all  their  foes 
"  were  it  possible  to  do  anything  with  them  while  divid- 
ed into  so  many  factions."  The  same  passions  which 
had  prompted  Leisler  to  overturn  the  late  government 
now  urged  him  to  levy  war  against  the  prince  for  whom 
he  had  lately  contended,  by  holding  the  fort  against  his 
representative,  because  the  zealous  friends  of  the  revo- 
lution had  been  wholly  overlooked  in  the  establishment 
of  government  as  unworthy  of  trust.  Forsaken  by  his 
soldiers  in  the  hour  of  trial  that  infatuated  leader  was 
soon  compelled  to  submit  at  discretion.  A  special  Court 
was  soon  after  appointed  to  try  the  most  guilty.  Several 
plead,  were  found  guilty,  and  were  commended  as  ob- 
jects of  that  pardon  which  they  afterwards  received. 
But  Leisler  and  Milbourne,  his  Secretary  and  principal 
adviser,  refused  to  plead,  because  with  a  mixture  of 
ignorance  a,nd  enthusiasm  they  denied  the  authority  of 
the  Court,  they  were  adjudged  guilty  of  treason.  Though 
the  governor  at  first  prudently  resolved  to  leave  their 
ultimate  fate  to  the  royal  decision,  yet  by  the  request  of 


72  THE    CONXmUATION    OF 

the  two  houses  of  assembly,  they  were  almost  immedi- 
ately executed,  because  many  clamoured  for  their  fall. 
Of  the  fairness  of  their  trial,  the  nature  of  their  crime, 
or  the  justness  of  their  sentence  no  doubt  can  be  rea- 
sonably entertained  ;  since  they  were  not  indicted  for 
the  part  they  had  acted  in  the  revolution  or  in  the  sub- 
sequent violences,  but  merely  for  holding  a  fortress  by 
arms  against  the  legal  governor,  which  in  judgement  of 
law  was  levying  war  against  the  King  :  But  the  prudence 
of  the  measure  may  be  justly  questioned,  because  ill-timed 
examples  only  weaken  the  power  which  they  are  meant  to 
support.  William  declared  in  favour  of  the  validity  of 
the  judgement ;  yet  ordered  their  estates  to  be  returned 
to  their  children,  because  the  services  of  the  fiithers  re- 
quired some  attention  to  the  sons.^^  The  first  assembly 
convened  meantime  in  April  1691.  At  the  same  time 
that  it  recognized  "  their  majestys  just  title  according 
to  the  law  of  England,"  it  transmitted  them  thanks  "  for 
restoring  a  true  English  government  and  the  former 
liberty  of  an  assembly  ; "  and  for  these  favours  it  vowed 
future  gratitude  and  support.  It  declared  the  ancient 
boundaries  of  the  province  from  the  river  Connecticut 
to  the  bay  of  Delaware,  and  it  solicited  that  the  whole 
might  be  annexed  to  its  government.^*  And  it  enacted 
a  variety  of  laws^^  to  heal  the  late  and  prevent  the  re- 
turn of  future  disorders.  It  passed  an  Act  "  for  settling 
the  disturbances  that  have  lately  happened,  by  setting 
up  a  power  without  authority  from  the  Crown,  which 
had  greatly  debauched  the  minds  of  many  people."  It 
declared  "  what  are  the  rights  of  the  subjects  of  this 
province ; "  asserting  among  other  remarkable  particu- 
lars, "  that  no  tax  ought  to  be  required  of  them  without 
the  consent  of  the  assembly."  They  were  prompted 
possibly  to  this  measure,  because  they  had  once  been  a 
conquered  people,  and  had  lately  been  compelled  to  pay 
duties  which  those  who  were  now  in  power  had  disputed 
as  illegal.  But  to  this  bill  William  afterwards  dissent- 
ed, because  he  deemed  it  incongruous  for  a  subordinate 
legislature   to  declare  "  what  are  its  own  privileges." 


CHALMERS  S    POLITICAL    ANNALS.  73 

The  assembly  granted  £2000  for  the  expense  of  one  hun- 
dred fusileers  during  one  year.  It  established  a  revenue 
for  defraying  the  public  charge  for  two  years.  And  in 
order  to  close  the  wounds  of  the  state,  it  passed  an  Act 
"  pardoning  such  as  have  been  active  in  the  late  dis- 
orders." From  an  assembly  which  deserves  to  be  re- 
membered as  the  friends  of  their  country,  Sloughter 
hastened  to  Albany  where  he  met  the  sachems  of  the 
Five  Nations,  to  whom  he  delivered  the  presents  that 
he  had  brought  with  him  from  England.  He  renewed 
with  them  the  covenant  of  peace  for  all  the  Colonies. 
And  in  their  turn  they  assured  him  of  their  resolution 
to  prosecute  the  war  against  the  French  while  they  lived, 
and  never  to  speak  of  peace  but  with  the  common  con- 
sent. Yet  they  observed  with  a  shrewdness  which  hit 
most  of  those  who  were  then  present :  That  the  late 
disorders  of  the  province  had  like  to  have  confounded 
all  their  affairs,  while  several  of  their  brethren  had  de- 
serted Albany  in  the  hour  of  danger,  but  hoped  that 
neither  would  happen  in  future.  Scarcely  had  Sloughter 
performed  a  service  from  which  the  Colony  derived  so 
many  advantages  when  he  died  :  Leaving  the  province 
in  a  critical  state  no  less  from  internal  faction  than  from 
foreign  warfare. 

Disregarding  the  late  act  of  assembly  which  declared 
"  that  the  first  of  the  council  in  nomination  shall  pre- 
side in  case  of  the  decease  of  the  governor,"  that  body 
with  a  laudable  disinterestedness  declared  Major  In- 
goldsby,  who  possessed  the  oldest  royal  commission, 
commander  in  chief  of  the  province,  till  the  Kings 
pleasure  should  be  known.  And  he  was  immediately 
called  into  action.  Information  was  no  sooner  received 
by  the  Council  that  the  French  liad  formed  a  design 
upon  Albany  than  it  wisely  determined  to  prevent  their 
attack  by  invading  Canada.  With  this  view  it  asked 
aid  of  Massachusetts,  Rhode  Island,  Connecticut ;  "  but 
they  flatly  denied  what  was  anxiously  asked."  In  this 
extremity  it  represented  to  the  Committee  of  the  Colo- 
nies the  state  of  the  province,  Avhich  had  groaned  under 


74  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

insupportable  pressures  since  its  miserable  union  with 
Boston :  It  recounted  as  not  the  least  of  its  infelicities, 
that  New  England  since  their  late  unhappy  junction  had 
poisoned  those  western-parts,  which  had  formerly  been 
signal  for  their  attachment  to  Monarchy,  with  her  sedi- 
tious and  anti-monarchical  principles : "  and  it  begged 
for  a  supply  of  warlike  stores  in  language  which  shewed 
the  wants  and  inabilities  of  the  people.  ^^  In  the  mean 
time,  Schuyler,  the  Mayor  of  Albany,  who  was  justly 
celebrated  as  no  less  brave  than  honest,  conducted  into 
Canada  about  four  hundred  Indians  and  Provincials. 
Though  his  intentions  had  been  discovered  by  the  scouts 
of  the  enemy  he  crossed  Lake  Champlain  and  surprized 
La  Prairie.  Here  he  was  encountered  however  by  the 
Canadians  and  their  Indian  allies.  The  French  officers 
shewed  their  men  how  to  conquer,  and  bravely  died, 
because  they  would  not  survive  their  late  disgrace. 
Owing  to  the  usual  prowess  of  the  Mohawks  Schuyler 
obliged  his  gallant  opponents  to  retire  into  their  fort ; 
which  he  immediately  assaulted  though  with  a  success 
unequal  to  the  vigour  of  his  conduct.  But  fearing  from 
what  he  saw  and  heard  that  his  retreat  would  be  cut 
off  he  prudently  retired  and  reconducted  his  men  in 
triumph  to  Albany.  His  countrymen  received  him  with 
more  than  usual  applause,  because  he  was  the  first  Eng- 
lish officer  who  had  led  an  army  into  Canada  across 
Lake  Champlain  and  had  revenged  the  massacre  of 
Schenectady.^^  Animated  by  this  exertion  and  success 
and  by  the  presents  and  promises  of  Ingoldsby,  the 
Five  Nations  alone  continued  their  vigorous  attacks  on 
the  Canadians,  and  generously  acted  as  the  protectors 
of  New  York,  while  it  was  unsupported  by  the  neigh- 
bouring colonies,  while  it  could  only  maintain  the  garri- 
son of  Albany,  because  its  resources  were  exhausted,^^ 

Colonel  Fletcher,  a  soldier  of  fortune,  a  man  of 
profligate  character,  but  a  zealous  officer,  was  appointed 
governor  of  that  province  in  January  1692.  Perfectly 
informed  of  the  state  of  his  government,  he  solicited 
warlike   stores,  presents  for  its  Indian  allies,  and  two 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  75 

additional  companies  of  soldiers  for  its  defence.  Every 
thing  was  granted  to  his  prayers  with  an  alacrity  in 
proportion  to  the  importance  of  them.  And  in  order 
to  restore  that  internal  peace,  which  the  inconsiderate 
zeal  of  Leisler  had  destroyed,  a  general  pardon  was 
gi'anted,  and  all  prosecutions  on  account  of  the  late  dis- 
orders were  prudently  discharged.  The  governor  de- 
parted for  New  York  on  board  a  frigate,  which  was 
ordered  to  remain  for  the  protection  of  its  coasts. ^"^ 

But  the  continual  solicitation  of  that  province  for  the 
annexation  of  the  Jerseys  proved  not  equally  successful, 
because  this  measure  was  opposed  by  the  Proprietaries, 
who  claimed  a  right  to  a  power  of  government  which, 
they  were  too  feeble  to  exercise.  ^^  And  those  Colonies 
remained  for  several  years  in  a  state  of  independent 
insig-nilicance,  since  they  were  protected  by  their  neigh- 
bours from  external  attacks,  and  exhibited  no  domestic 
scenes  that  attracted  the  notice  of  the  world. 

As  early  however  as  May  1689,  Pensylvania  was 
deemed  worthy  "  of  the  consideration  of  Parliament,  for 
bringing  it  into  a  nearer  dependence  on  the  Crown." 
But  other  more  interesting  objects  engaged  the  attention 
of  the  legislature  at  tliat  critical  period.  And  this 
province  continued  till  February  1690,  under  the  mis- 
rule of  Blackwell,  who,  though  trained  under  Cromwell, 
was  unable  to  govern  the  Quakers,  because  he  did  not 
regard  their  principles,  who  deserted  a  colony,  which  he 
could  neither  frighten  nor  command.  The  ministers  of 
England,  perceiving  how  easily  such  a  people  might  be 
conquered  by  an  enemy  no  less  politic  than  daring,  de- 
termined in  October  1691  to  annex  Pensylvania  to  some 
neighbouring  province,  and  to  take  it  into  the  "  immedi- 
ate oovernment  of  the  Kino;."  ^2 

If  from  Pensylvania,  which  continued  nevertheless 
under  the  peaceful,  and  therefore  unimportant  adminis- 
tration, of  a  President  and  Comicil  till  April  1693,  we 
look  southward  to  Maryland,  we  shall  lind  a  similar 
policy  adopted,  more  steadily  pursued,  and  attended 
with  more  lasting  effects.     The  Revolution  was  scarcely 


76  THE    CONTINUATION   OF 

atchieved  when  the  English  ministers  perceived  that 
nothing  could  be  more  impolitic  than  to  suffer  distant 
j)rovinces  to  be  governed  by  men  over  whom  a  King  of 
England  could  exercise  only  a  feeble  jurisdiction,  where 
the  most  vigorous  authority  was  the  most  necessary : 
And  that  remedy  was  advised,  which  could  alone  effect- 
ually eradicate  a  distemper  which  had  grown  inveterate 
from  the  length  of  its  continuance.  When  the  Lords 
of  the  Committee  of  plantations  reflected  on  the  present 
condition  of  Maryland  and  of  other  chartered  Colonies, 
which  neither  held  themselves  subject  to  the  Kings  im- 
mediate government,  nor  deemed  themselves  account- 
Sible  for  their  proceedings,  they  advised  their  master,  in 
May  1689,  to  recommend  to  the  consideration  of  Par- 
liament objects  so  worthy  of  its  care.  But  engaged 
wholly  in  projects  which  were  deemed  more  interest- 
ing because  more  splendid,  or  distrusting  the  concur- 
rence of  the  Commons,  who  were  then  deeply  engaged 
in  political  warfare  among  themselves,  William  de- 
clined to  pursue  that  salutary  advice.  And  in  the  fol- 
lowing September  the  Attorney  General  Treby  was 
desired  "to  discourse  the  Speaker  about  Lord  Balti- 
mores  patent."  ®^  Yet  he  probably  received  little  en- 
couragement to  bring  those  complicated  objects,  where- 
in the  rights  of  individuals  and  the  prerogative  of  the 
crown  were  closely  interwoven,  before  a  jurisdiction,  the 
wisdom  and  power  of  which  were  only  equall  to  the  ardu- 
ous task  of  doing  ample  justice  to  both.  And  the  tidings 
of  the  revolution  in  Maryland,  and  of  the  anarchy  that 
ensued,  were  therefore  received  in  December  1689  with 
a  satisfaction  equall  to  the  anxiety  with  which  a  pre- 
tence was  sought  to  justify  predetermined  measures. 
This  extraordinary  change  was  soon  approved  of,  be- 
cause it  was  wished  for ;  and  those  who  had  produced 
it  were  directed  to  continue  the  government  in  the  Kino-s 
name  till  further  orders,  because  this  policy  relieved  the 
ministers  from  their  late  embarrassments.'^*  And  they 
determined  at  length  in  October  1690  to  send  thither  a 
governor  of  royal  appointment.     But  the  unquestionable 


CHALMEESS    POLITICAL    ANNALS.  77 

rights  of  a  nobleman,  the  stubborn  principles  of  English 
law,  stood  as  mighty  obstacles  in  the  way.  To  be  re- 
lieved however  from  those  difficulties  they  consulted 
Holt,  the  renowned  Chief  Justice,  who  perhaps  detract- 
ed from  the  greatness  of  his  reputation  when  he  gave  it 
as  his  opinion  ;^^  "that  though  the  forfeiture  of  Lord 
Baltimore's  charter  had  not  been  found  by  the  inquest 
of  a  jury,  yet  heing  in  a  case  of  necessity^  the  King  may 
constitute  a  Governor  by  his  sole  commission : "  Never 
reflecting,  that  the  same  statute,  which  had  placed  the 
crown  on  the  head  of  William,  declared;  "  that  all  grants 
of  forfeiture  before  conviction  are  illegal ;"  that  the  plea 
of  necessity  had  been  often  urged  by  the  worst  men  for 
the  worst  purposes. 

The  zeal  of  Colonel  Copley,  who  had  secured  the  gar- 
rison of  Hull  for  the  prince  of  Orange,  who  had  been 
since  censured  by  the  Commons^®  "for  his  arbitrary 
proceedings,"  was  nevertheless  rewarded  in  Germany 
1 690-1,  with  the  government  of  Maryland.  Yet  his  com- 
mission was  drawn  in  the  name  of  the  Proprietary  with 
the  approbation  only  of  the  King,  according  to  the  advice 
of  the  Chief  Justice,  who  distrusted  his  own  opinion.*'^ 
Lord  Baltimore  however  with  a  firmness  worthy  of  a 
subject  of  England  refused  to  sign  it,  because  he  deemed 
it  destructive  of  the  rights  of  his  charter.  But  with  a 
prudence  equal  to  his  resolution  he  ofi^'ered  for  the  satis- 
faction of  William  to  appoint  a  protestant  governor  of 
undoubted  credit,  to  name  protestant  Counsellors,  to 
place  the  power  of  the  militia  with  the  public  arms 
in  protestant  hands.  The  church  of  England  wrote  the 
Bishop  of  London  in  favour  of  the  Proprietary  govern- 
ment from  which  she  had  derived  security  and  freedom; 
addresses  from  the  protestant  inhabitants  of  every  part 
of  the  province  were  transmitted  in  similar  language:®* 
But  in  vain.  The  ill  founded  accusations  of  the  insur- 
gents were  credited,  because  it  was  hoped  they  were 
true.  And  a  commission  in  the  King's  nanie  was  soon 
after  submitted  to  Treby  the  attorney  general  for  his 
approbation.     Yet  still  distrusting  the  ground  on  which 


78  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

the  measure  was  founded,  he  refused  his  recommenda- 
tion :  Assigning  as  a  reason  what  had  done  him  infinite 
honour  had  he  stood  firm;  "that  as  he  understood  the 
seizure  of  the  government  to  be  for  necessity,  he  kneAv 
not  the  particulars  of  what  was  sent  him  were  agreeable 
to  the  established  laws  or  government  of  Maryland  or 
absolutely  necessary  for  its  preservation."  ^^  The  Com- 
mission, which  that  officer  now  refused  to  approve,  not- 
withstanding his  scruples  and  the  vigorous  opposition 
of  Lord  Baltimore  was  adopted  by  the  Court'"  in  Feb- 
ruary 1690-1,  and  signed  by  the  Queen  :  Yet  the  minis- 
ters of  William,  still  fearful  of  offending  those  laws  which 
all  were  bound  to  revere,  procured  the  explicit  appro- 
bation of  Holt,  and  even  of  Treby,  whose  objections  had 
been  removed  in  the  mean  time.'^  Nevertheless  so  con- 
scious were  the  men  of  those  days  of  the  irregularity  of 
this  transaction  that  the  Commissioners  of  the  Privy 
Seal  refused  to  pass  the  commission,  till  peremptorily 
ordered  to  proceed. ^^  The  great  neglects  of  the  govern- 
ment, whereby  the  peace  is  broken  and  the  administration 
of  justice  is  violated  ;  the  utter  want  of  defence  of  the 
country,  which  is  like  to  be  lost  to  the  Crown  of  Eng- 
land ;  the  impossibility  of  defending  it  by  any  other 
means  than  taking  the  government  into  the  immediate 
care  of  the  crown :  All  were  the  reasons  assigned  by  the 
commission  for  seizing  the  administration  of  Maryland, 
for  justifying  that  signal  exertion  of  power.  The  zeal- 
ous fi^iends  of  the  Revolution  exclaimed :  "  That  it  is  a 
part  of  the  liberties  of  England,  because  the  safety  of  the 
subject  requires  it,  that  the  King  may  not  enter  upon 
any  man's  possessions  upon  bare  surmise  without  the 
intervention  of  a  jury."  '^  Had  the  recited  facts  been  as 
true  as  they  were  assuredly  groundless,  they  ought  to 
have  been  proved  to  the  satisfaction  of  his  peers  before 
Lord  Baltimore's  rights  were  taken  away.  Few  countries 
had  been  governed  with  more  real  wisdom  than  Mar}- 
land  during  the  long  period  from  its  settlement  to  the 
Revolution,  and  no  people  could  enjoy  more  tranquillity 
and  freedom  than  its  inhabitants,  till  the  demon  of  fac- 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  79 

tion  broke  loose  to  destroy  its  peace  and  to  distract  its 
affairs.  And  to  charge  that  nobleman  with  the  anar- 
chy which  ensued  was  converting  misfortunes  that  he 
lamented  into  crimes  that  others  committed.  At  a  sub- 
sequent day,  long  after  the  laws  had  been  invaded  with 
the  approbation  of  those  who  ought  to  have  defended 
them,  a  prosecution  was  ordered  against  Lord  Balti- 
more, with  a  view  to  procure  that  verdict  of  a  jury  which 
ought  to  have  preceded  the  seizure  of  his  rights.  But 
owing  partly  to  the  difficulty  of  supporting  the  facts,  but 
more  to  the  continued  scruples  of  Treby,  who  refused 
to  proceed  without  a  formal  order  from  the  Privy  Coun- 
cil, it  seems  to  have  been  never  carried  on  with  effect: 
And  on  this  occasion  probably  it  was,  that  Lord  Balti- 
more was  outlawed  hy  mistake.''^  While  the  powers  of 
government  however  were  thus  taken  away  his  private 
rights  were  not  directly  invaded.  His  lands,  the  quit 
rents  of  the  soil,  and  all  profits  that  Avere  supposed  to  be 
attached  to  his  person  independent  of  his  government 
were  reserved  to  him.  And  royal  orders  had  been  trans- 
mitted CO  the  insurgents  "to  suffer  the  Proprietarys 
agents  to  receive  his  revenue  and  to  transact  his  affairs." 
But  the  Committee  of  Safety,  who  then  directed  the  af- 
fairs of  Maryland  found  means  to  elude  orders  that  it 
dared  not  disobey,  because  the  members  of  which  it  was 
composed  found  the  delight  that  mean  men  enjoy  from 
the  mortification  of  the  great  in  showing  their  triumph 
over  their  late  lord.  Destitute  of  protection  during  the 
misgovernment  of  the  insurgents,  the  friends  of  tlie  an- 
cient constitution  prayed  for  the  reestablishment  of  a 
government  of  laws  and  of  their  former  happiness,  with 
a  zeal  in  proportion  to  the  wrong  that  they  suffered  from 
a  power,  which  they  deemed  an  usurpation,  because  they 
had  never  consented  to  a  change  that  they  tliought 
illegal.  Copley  departed  for  Maryland  in  the  beginning 
of  the  year  1G92.  And  to  him  the  ministers  of  England 
referred  the  redress  of  the  grievances  complained  of, 
which  we  shall  find  no  longer  remembered  amid  the 
tumult  of  party  and  the  gratification  of  interest." 


80  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

Though  causes  similar  to  those  \\'hich  introduced  into 
Maryland  the  remarkable  change  before  mentioned,  had 
long  existed  in  North  and  South  Carolina ;  though  their 
condition  had  been  proposed  as  equally  deserving  the 
consideration  of  Parliament;  the  administration  was  suf- 
fered to  continue  in  the  hands  of  the  Proprietaries ;  be- 
cause it  was  not  deemed  prudent  to  attack  the  rights  of 
English  nobles,  who  possessed  the  privilege  of  complain- 
ing, who  could  have  interested  a  powerful  body  in  their 
favour.  North-Carolina  seems  never  to  have  perfectly 
recovered  from  the  fatal  distractions,  which  Culpepper's 
rebellion  had  introduced,  which  were  afterwards  con- 
tinued rather  than  moderated  by  the  absurd  tyranny  of 
Sothel.  And  while  the  Proprietaries  "abhorred  the 
unjust  actions  of  their  governor"  they  endeavoured  to 
promote  their  prosperity  and  peace  by  a  salutary  ad- 
ministration. With  this  honourable  design  they  sus- 
pended Sothel,  who  had  enfeebled  their  authority  by 
disgracing  it,  and  in  December  1G89  appointed  Colonel 
Ludwell  in  his  room,  who  to  his  vigour  and  talents  added 
a  perfect  knowledge  of  the  people.  But  with  the  quer- 
ulous spirit  of  party  his  commission  was  questioned  by 
some  and  his  character  was  libelled  by  others.  Under 
the  government  of  a  ruler  who  attended  in  some  measure 
to  the  prejudices  of  the  governed,  they  enjoyed  how- 
ever a  considerable  share  of  tranquillity ;  because  they 
compared  their  present  condition  with  their  recent 
misery  under  a  governor  whom  they  had  been  obliged 
to  expell.^^ 

While  this  colony  began  to  relish  in  some  degree  the 
blessings  of  order  and  regular  government,  because  she 
had  lately  tasted  the  infelicities  of  anarchy.  South  Caro- 
lina plunged  into  fresh  convulsions,  since  she  was  not  yet 
convinced  of  the  danger  of  innovation.  A  Country  which 
claimed  it  as  lier  chief  privilege  to  l^e  governed  only  by 
stated  laws  enjoyed  at  the  era  of  the  Revolution  no  acts  of 
a  provincial  legislature  as  rules  of  conduct.  She  was  then 
governed  by  martial -law,  because  her  rulers  dreaded  the 
invasion  of  the  Spaniards,  though  a  dissatisfied  people 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  81 

feared  nothing  for  themselves.  And  Colleton  was  de- 
tested by  those  committed  to  his  charge  in  proportion  to 
his  endeavours  to  reform  their  manners,  which  is  always 
dangerous,  to  his  attempts  to  rule  them  contrary  to  their 
principles.  During  this  state  of  the  minds  of  men,  So- 
thel,  who  had  been  justly  expelled  by  the  sister  colony 
on  the  north  arrived  at  Charlestown.  Relying  on  sup- 
posed powers,  as  one  of  the  Proprietaries,  for  which  there 
was  some  foundation,  and  encouraged  by  the  acclama- 
tions of  a  people  who  wished  for  change  because  they 
hated  their  present  ruler,  he  assumed  the  administration 
in  the  beginning  of  the  year  1690,  notwithstanding  the 
protest  of  the  established  governor  and  council  who  feebly 
endeavoured  to  support  the  authority  of  the  other  Pro- 
prietors. With  the  usual  temper  of  usurpers  he  readily 
engaged  to  gratify  the  passions  of  those  who  had  con- 
tributed to  his  elevation :  And  with  this  view  he  con- 
vened a  Parliament  in  December  1690:  An  act  of  Banish- 
ment and  incapacitation  was  immediately  passed  against 
Colleton ;  subjecting  him  to  the  same  punishment  as  had 
lately  been  inflicted  on  Sothel  by  others.  The  Propri- 
etary-Deputies who  had  refused  to  countenance  the  pre- 
sent usurpation,  who  had  been  arbitrarily  displaced,  were 
at  the  same  time  punished  by  fine  and  imprisonment. 
Thus  shewing  to  the  world,  how  little  ashamed  are  collec- 
tive bodies  of  men  to  sanctify  those  resolutions  of  interest 
or  of  faction,  which  as  individuals  they  would  reject 
with  contempt  or  abhorrence.  When  the  Proprietaries 
heard  of  those  signal  proceedings  they  recalled  Sothel,  be- 
cause they  considered  his  conduct  treasonable,  and  in  May 
1691  they  required  his  speedy  return  to  England  to  jus- 
tify pretensions,  which  a  mind  the  most  irregular  could 
only  have  found.  They  dissented  at  the  same  time  to 
the  acts  of  Parliament  before  mentioned,  as  unconstitu- 
tional in  their  creation  and  unjust  in  tlieir  provisions. 
And  with  a  spirit  which  does  them  honour  they  declared, 
"  that  had  the  cliarges  against  Colleton  been  proved  they 
had  made  him  an  example  to  all  future  governors  how 
they  abused  their  trust."     Fully  satisfied  at  length  of 


82  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

the  deplorable  condition  of  this  inconsiderable  cok>ny 
the  Proprietaries  extended  the  commission  of  Ludwell 
over  the  whole  province  of  Carolina  in  November  1691. 
When  they  reflected  that  Sothel  and  the  people  had 
acted  contrary  to  the  fundamental  constitutions,  the  va- 
lidity of  which  was  denied,  they  wisely  determined  "  to 
make  his  instructions  suitable  to  their  charter."  He  was 
directed  to  inquire  "  of  what  grievances  the  inhabitants 
complain,  and  to  let  them  know  that  right  may  be  done ; " 
to  restore  money  illegally  collected  of  them :  But  should 
he  find  the  late  offenders  so  numerous  that  it  would  be 
dangerous  to  punish  them,  to  grant  a  general  pardon, 
excepting  a  few  of  the  most  guilty,  who  were  reserved 
for  the  animadversion  of  the  law.  From  the  era  of  the 
constitutions  of  Locke  "the  grand  council"  had  ex- 
ercised under  their  authority  a  very  extraordinary  power, 
similar  to  that  of  the  Lords  of  articles  in  the  Scottish 
Constitution,  of  preparing  exclusively  all  bills  for  the 
consideration  of  parliament.  But  a  law,  so  contrary  to 
the  genius  of  freedom,  which  gave  that  body  the  po"\v-er 
of  negativing  resolutions  before  debate,  had  ever  been 
viewed  with  jealousy  and  submitted  to  with  reluctance. 
And  the  people  now  clamored  for  an  abolition  of  this 
badge  of  Slavery,  because  the  pulse  of  independence  beat 
high.  The  governor  was  therefore  instructed  "to  call 
no  such  council  till  they  consent  that  it  may  exercise  the 
powers  allowed  by  the  constitution,  since  any  other  use 
of  it  was  not  easily  discerned."  The  impolicy  of  erect- 
ing within  the  same  province  several  distinct  and  inde- 
pendent governments  was  now  fully  perceived:  And 
Ludwell  was  directed  to  summon  delegates  from  every 
part  of  Carolina  to  meet  him  in  assembly  at  Charles 
Town.  But,  independence  is  so  flattering  to  the  pride 
of  men,  that  the  ancient  county  of  Albemarle  refused 
to  comply,  because  it  chose  to  retain  the  power  and 
to  enjoy  the  pleasure  of  governing  itself:  And  in 
this  event  he  was  empowered  to  appoint  a  deputy  gov- 
ernor of  North  Carolina,  who  for  some  years  ruled  it 
with  the  feeble  authority  incident  to  delegated  powers. 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  83 

Thus  Carolina  underwent  a  change  of  considerable  con- 
sequence during  the  year  1691  :  While  the  people  of 
the  South  were  exalted  by  the  degradation  of  the  grand 
Council,  those  of  the  North  felt  all  the  inconveniences 
of  a  government  weak  and  unsteady,  because  it  was  de- 
pendent. That  the  Carolinians  might  no  longer  be  se- 
duced from  their  duty  the  Proprietaries  announced  the 
suspension  of  Sothel  and  required  their  obedience  to 
Ludwel  under  the  highest  penalties  known  to  the  law."'' 
The  vigorous  conduct  of  the  Proprietors  ensured  an 
easy  reception  to  their  new  governor  in  the  beginning 
of  the  year  1692.  But  he  soon  discovered  that  this 
wretched  colony  was  divided  into  two  factions,  besides 
smaller  cabals,  which  contended  for  superiority,  which 
embittered  private  enjoyment,  and  disturbed  the  public 
quiet :  The  one  resolved  "  to  oppose  all  that  the  Pro- 
prietors should  offer,"  because  it  hoped  for  the  gratifica- 
tion of  every  passion  from  a  royal  government:  The 
other  pleaded  its  late  sufferings,  and  present  attach- 
ments as  its  title  to  favour.  By  endeavouring  to  gain 
both  Ludwel  had  not  the  good  fortune  to  please  either, 
because  his  manner  was  haughty,  and  he  had  little  to 
bestow.  The  same  snare  which  had  ruined  his  prede- 
cessor, Colleton,  was  now  laid  for  him,  though  not  with 
the  same  success :  He  was  offered  a  donation  of  a  thou- 
sand pounds  if  he  would  consent  to  an  act  of  indemnity 
for  late  offences.  This  fascinating  charm  seems  to  have 
so  far  biassed  his  better  judgment  as  to  induce  him  to 
prevent  the  effect  of  private  suits  brought  for  redress  of 
private  wrongs :  But  he  was  reprimanded  by  his  mas- 
ters, who,  while  they  warned  him  of  the  fate  of  the  late 
governor,  assured  him  with  a  becoming  spirit,  tliat  they 
never  would  consent  to  stop  the  course  of  justice.  From 
the  year  1689  the  quitrents  had  remained  in  arrear,  be- 
cause the  tenants  were  dissatisfied  with  their  grants : 
And  even  the  Proprietary-Deputies,  who  had  lately  suf- 
fered persecution  for  their  attachment,  were  equally  dila- 
tory, because  men  only  wish  for  a  pretence  to  refuse 
payment  of  money.     Though  "  the  greatest  enemies  of 


84  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

the  Proprietaries  denied  not  their  right  to  the  soil,  yet 
they  did  not  admit  that  they  could  dispose  of  it  on  such 
conditions  as  they  thought  proper."  In  order  to  close 
the  wounds  of  a  country,  which,  owing  to  all  these 
causes,  was  then  in  no  small  danger  of  fresh  convulsions, 
a  Parliament  was  convened  in  October  1692.  But  the 
current  of  law  flows  to  little  salutary  purpose  when  the 
source  is  polluted,  because  the  fountain  itself  is  corrupted. 
The  Parliament  soon  appointed  a  committee  "  to  draw 
up  what  they  would  have  as  a  system  of  government ;" 
But  this  effort  was  derided  by  the  Proprietors  as  an  in- 
stance of  weakness  in  men,  "  who  had  disrespectfully 
rejected  the  excellent  constitutions  of  Locke."  The  gov- 
ernor refused  to  concur  in  an  act  of  general  pardon, 
because  his  instructions  had  denied  him  power.  The 
Proprietors  dissented  to  an  act  with  regard  to  the  qual- 
ification of  jurymen,  because  it  was  unreasonable,  to  one 
giving  a  vote  to  every  man  whose  riches  amounted  to 
ten  pounds,  because  it  was  dangerous :  But  they  cheer- 
fully consented  to  "  an  act  for  better  keeping  the  Lords 
day,  and  wished  it  were  strictly  executed."  When  they 
considered  the  lamentable  state  of  their  province  in  April 
1693,  they  granted  a  general  pardon  for  crimes  com- 
mitted prior  to  the  publication  of  Ludwells  commission, 
excepting  Daniel  and  More ;  "in  hopes  that  it  might 
beget  a  resolution  in  the  people  to  become  strict  observers 
of  the  laws  in  future."  They  ordered  their  receiver  to 
compel  every  one  to  pay  his  quit  rents ;  without  reflect- 
ing that  they  by  this  means  laid  the  foundation  of  future 
controversy.  And  they  determined  to  govern  according 
to  the  powers  granted  by  the  Charter,  "  till  the  'people 
are  disposed  to  be  more  orderly,"  because  they  "thought 
this  policy  safest  and  best."  They  listened  at  the  same 
time  with  commiseration  to  the  complaints  of  the  French 
refugees,  who  inhabited  Colliton  County,  whose  religion 
and  property  were  attacked  while  the  legitimacy  of  their 
ofi"spring  was  denied  by  the  furious  party-men  of  that 
province:  But  while  they  assured  the  afllicted,  "that 
they  would  always  find  the  Proprietors  their  best  pro- 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  85 

lectors,"  they  put  the  present  complainants  in  remem- 
brance, that  they  had  formerly  joined  their  oppressors 
in  opposition  to  the  laws,  who  would  again  deceive,  be- 
cause they  had  formerly  misled  them.  Neither  these 
arts  of  the  Proprietaries  however,  nor  the  futile  endeav- 
ours of  Ludwel  proved  successful,  because  former  causes 
of  dissention  produced  similar  distractions.  And  he  not 
long  after  abandoned  a  province,  which  he  could  neither 
please  nor  govern.  Thomas  Smith,  a  Cacique  of  Caro- 
lina, who  had  been  appointed  governor  in  November 
1690,  though  he  never  assumed  the  office,  who  was 
esteemed  by  his  countrymen  for  his  good  qualities,  was 
now  chosen  by  the  Proprietary  Deputies  as  his  Success- 
or, till  the  pleasure  of  their  lords  sliould  be  known. 
And  he  was  appointed  governor  by  the  Proprietaries  in 
November  1693.  As  the  unalterable  constitutions  had 
been  lately  laid  aside,  because  the  people  had  contemned 
a  system  which  had  contributed  to  their  misery,  and  had 
desired  to  be  ruled  only  according  to  the  charter,  a  form 
of  government  Avas  now  established  by  instructions  ex- 
tremely similar  to  that  of  the  other  colonies  ;  though  the 
former  courts  of  justice  and  many  of  the  ancient  customs 
remained.  But  the  payment  of  quit  rents  which  were  now 
some  years  in  arrear,  and  the  tenure  of  lands  which  were 
extremely  uncertain,  because  no  common  principle  was  ty 

acknowledged  by  the  tenants  and  lords,  formed  a  never 
ceasing  cause  of  dissention  in  that  turbulent  colony. 
Every  means  were  tried  in  vain  to  heal  those  disorders 
that  the  Proprietaries  feelingly  deplored,  because  the  colo- 
nists were  gratified  by  convulsions.  And  as  the  governor, 
though  "a  wise  and  sober  man,"  could  not  satisfy  the 
demands  of  the  people,  since  it  is  impossible  to  gratify 
men  who  complain  without  any  adequate  cause,  he  gave 
warning  in  the  beginning  of  the  year  1694,  to  his  con- 
stituents in  language  which  paints  tlie  distractions  of 
the  times :  "That  it  would  be  impossible  to  settle  the 
Country  except  a  proprietary  was  sent  thither  with  full 
power  to  hear  their  grievances." ^^  Placed  during  those 
distractions  at  a  happy  distance  from  the  French  on  the 


86  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

North,  and  living  in  amity  with  the  Spaniards  and  In- 
dians on  the  South,  because  the  governors  had  been  con- 
stantly directed  to  avoid  hostility  with  both,  Carolina 
was  not  afflicted  with  the  evils  of  foreign  war  in  super- 
addition  of  the  miseries  of  domestic  discord.  And  the 
Carolinians  neither  contributed  to  the  assistance  of  other 
colonies  nor  gave  aid  to  England  while  she  struggled  in 
an  unequal  contest  for  the  safety  of  all. 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  87 


AUTHOKITIES  and  NOTES. 


'  Ralpli  and  his  authorities. — "  Lord  Shrewsburys  circular 
letter.  Virg*  Ent.  4  v.  244-6.— '  Yirg*  Ent.  4  v.  p.  247-83. 
During  the  examination  of  these  complaints  against  Lord  Ef- 
fingham, he  informed  the  Lords  of  the  Committee  of  Colonies : 
That  he  had  left  Yirginia  in  peace  and  plenty  under  the  ad- 
ministration of  the  i*resident  of  the  Council,  and  that  the 
militia  which  he  had  lately  reformed  amounted  to  3000  foot 
and  1300  horse ;  consisting  of  tlie  free  holders  and  house  keep- 
ers. Yirg*  Ent.  5  v.  p.  1. — "  Journ^  plant,  off.  6  v.  p.  218. — 
*  Com«  Journ^  10  vol.  p.  138.—'  Virg*  Ent.  4  v.  283.— Nichol- 
sons commission  was  general  and  concise  ;  empowering  him  to 
govern  Virginia  till  the  arrival  of  the  Commander  in  chief: 
And  he  was  allowed  as  a  salary  £500  from  his  appointment 
till  his  arrival  in  his  province ;  from  that  event  till  the  arrival 
of  the  chief  governor  at  the  rate  of  £1000  a  year ;  and  after- 
wards £300  a  year.  lb.  p.  302-4. — '  The  letters  and  addresses 
of  the  governor  and  Council  in  Yirg*  Ent.  5  v.  p.  10-27. — 
'  Laws  ]).  155-69. — '  Yirg*  Ent.  5  v.  p.  84.  In  consequence 
of  the  address  of  the  assembly  there  were  ordered  to  be  sent 
to  Virginia  in  October  1691,  two  hundred  barrels  of  gunpow- 
der with  ball  and  other  stores  in  proportion.  lb.  p.  99. — '°  lb. 
p.  68-218.— "lb.  99-107,  146-7.— '=  Laws  p.  169.— '^  See  the 
address  in  Virg*  Ent.  5  v,  p.  156.—'"  Virg''  Ent.  5  v.  p.  178- 
183,  193-4 :  The  commissioners  of  the  Customs  remarked  on 
this  occasion  ;  "  that  the  penny  a  pound  on  tobacco  exported 
to  the  other  colonies  and  imposed  by  the  statute  of  Charles  2d 
was  not  granted  so  much  for  raising  a  revenue  as  for  prevent- 
ing an  unlimited  trade  to  other  plantations  and  thence  to  Eu- 
rope."    lb.  189-90.—"  Mod.  Un.  hist.  41  v.  p.  544. 

'"  See  those  facts  in  the  state  of  New  England  under  the 
government  of  Andros  presented  to  the  committee  of  Colonies 
'in  May  1690.  N.  Eng**  pap.  5  v.  p.  223.— The  subjoined  lists 
of  the  militia  of  New  England  as  they  were  returned  by  their 
respective  officers  to  Sir  Edmond  Andros  in  the  year  1688  will 
shew  the  strength  of  that  Country  at  the  revolution.  The  de- 
tail is  in  N.  Eng.  pap.  5  vol.  p.  202. 


88  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 


MassacliTisetts 

. 

.       6570 

New  Hampshire 

4  Companies 

.     250 

Main    . 

.    2  Companies 

144 

County  of  Cornwal  . 

3  Companies 

.     201 

County  of  Bristol 

.    7  Companies 

780 

County  of  Plymouth 

6  Companies 

.     606 

County  of  Barnstaple 

.    4  Companies 

471 

Ehode  Island    . 

4  Companies 

.     328 

Providence   . 

.    5  Companies 

464 

Connecticut      . 

• 

.  3715 

The  whole    . 

.    13,529 

"  Hutch,  hist.  1  V.  370.— ''  Tlie  address  is  in  I^.  Eng.  Ent.  3  v. 
182. — "  A.  copy  of  the  order  is  in  the  same  papers  p.  49. — 
"  The  notices  sent  to  the  ministry  from  Boston.  lb.  50-96. — 
"  Bullivants  curious  diary  in  the  same  papers. — "  Had  these 
facts  been  recorded  only  by  Charlevoix  their  authenticity  might 
have  been  justly  questioned,  because  they  seem  so  extremely 
improbable :  But  the  Conquerors  were  not  ashamed  to  publish 
upon  their  return  to  Boston  Adiat  degraded  themselves ;  and 
this  relation  is  literally  copied  from  their  printed  Journal 
among  the  N.  Eng.  pap.  vol.  5. — "'  Private  letters  from  Boston 
among  the  IST.  Eng.  pap.  v.  5. — "  Hutch,  hist.  1  v.  p.  397-8. 

^^  The  address  from  the  General  Court  to  William  of  the 
29  of  March  1689-90  informed  him :  That  the  little  warlike 
stores  found  at  the  Ee volution  and  a  considerable  addition 
since  made  were  now  nearly  expended  ;  and  that  the  principal 
ships  suitable  for  any  naval  expedition  were  now  in  England, 
The  letter  from  Governor  Bradstreet  inclosing  this  address 
to  Lord  Shrewsbury,  the  Secretary  of  State,  after  speaking  of 
their  distresses,  says :  "  We  have  resolved  upon  an  expedition 
by  sea  to  Port-Eoyal  and  other  places  adjacent  under  the  con- 
duct of  Sir  William  Phips ;  it  being  the  general  opinion  that 
there  can  be  no  end  put  to  the  Indian  war  without  dislodging 
those  ill  neighbours  the  French :  God  succeeding  this  present 
attempt,  it  will  greatly  encourage  an  attack  upon  Canada,  if 
his  majesty  be  pleased  to  countenance  the  same  and  to  afford 
assistance  of  shipping,  with  a  speedy  supply  of  ammunition  of 
which  we  are  in  great  want  and  can  hardly  spare  sufficient  to 
furnish  this  present  expedition."  On  the  30  of  May  1690 
the  Agents,  Cooke  and  Oakes,  represented  to  the  Lords  of  the 
Committee  of  plantations :  That  as  our  Stores  are  lessened  our 
necessities  increase :  We  therefore  humbly  propose  a  Vessel  to 
be  dispatched  with  convoy  with  arras  and  ammunition,  where- 
by we  shall  be  enabled  to  defend  ourselves :  And  if  his  majesty 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  89 

shall  think  fit  to  attempt  the  reduction  of  Canada  (now  so 
prejudicial  to  their  majesty's  Colonies  in  America)  we  shall 
with  all  cheerfulness  give  our  outmost  assistance  thereto.  The 
Committee  soon  after  reported  to  William  the  various  allega- 
tions of  every  one  with  regard  to  the  state  of  New  England  ; 
proposed  that  the  merchants  might  be  allowed  to  export  thither 
a  specific  quantity  of  arms  and  ammunition ;  and  that  the  ad- 
miralty should  send  a  ship  of  defence  for  that  Country.  N. 
Eng.  Ent.  3  v.  215-22  :  N.  Eng.  pap.  5  v.  453.— But  the  ex- 
pedition .against  Canada  was  not  mentioned,  because  it  had 
been  faintly  proposed.  It  did  not  escape  the  military  judg- 
ment of  William,  that  a  people  whose  ships  suitable  to  any 
naval  expedition  were  then  at  the  distance  of  three  thousand 
miles,  whose  arsenals  were  so  empty,  could  engage  in  no  con- 
siderable enterprize.  And  he  did  not  bestow  one  thought  on 
the  conquest  of  Canada,  because  he  was  then  engaged  in  a 
more  important  object  the  reduction  of  Ireland. 

"JN.  York  pap.  2  v. — "  Phip's  short  account  of  this  expe- 
dition N.  Engl  p^p_  5  ^ — 27  ciiarlevoix  3  v.  p.  118-19.—''  lb. 
p.  1 17. — °^  As  the  remarkable  answer  of  Frontenac  was  not 
given  in  writing  it  has  occasioned  all  the  misrepresentations 
and  controversies  which  verbal  communications  generally  pro- 
duce. The  people  of  New  England  during  those  times  lost  no 
opportunity  of  wounding  the  reputation  of  Andros,  their  late 
governor,  because  they  hated  him  as  a  tyrant.  Actuated  by 
this  unworthy  spirit  Phipps  assured  the  ministers  of  England : 
"  That  Count  Frontenac  had  reviled  him  and  those  with  him 
as  traitors,  for  having  taken  up  with  an  usurper  and  seized 
upon  our  governor,  that  good  Christian  Sir  Edmond  Andros^ 
who  i/f  he  had  continued  in  his  government  the  French  and 
English  in  those  jyarts  had  been  all  one.''''  [Phipps  short  ac- 
count of  this  expedition  N.  Eng.  pap.  5  v.]  But  Charlevoix 
has  published  the  real  answer  "  word  for  word  from  the  letter 
written  to  De  Seignelay,  the  minister  of  the  marine :''  [3  v. 
p.  117:]  And  the  Paris  Gazette  of  the  5  February  1(591, 
confirms  his  relation. — ^°  Private  letters  from  Boston  in  De- 
cember 1690.— N.  Eng.  pap.  5  v.  p.  308.— ''  lb.— '*  There  is  a 
copy  of  this  law  among  the  N.  Eng.  pap.  vol.  5 :  It  recites  that 
a  considerable  public  debt  had  been  contracted  in  defending 
their  majestys  interests  against  the  enemy  which  they  were 
willing  to  pay :  But  that  the  present  calamity  and  poverty  of 
the  country  were  great :  The  emission  was  prudently  limited 
to  £7000 ;  which  the  colony  engaged  to  pay  "  as  the  Treasury 
was  enfeebled ; "  and  no  bills  were  to  be  under  5s.  or  higher 
than  £5,  Tliey  who  have  a  curiosity  to  view  one  of  the  first 
paper  bills  issued  within  the  British  dominions  may  see  one 


90  THE    CONTINUATION   OF 

N.  Ena;.  pap.  5  V.  p.  361 :  Mr,  Hutchinson  saw  a  five  shilling 
bill  of  this  emission  in  the  year  1749  which  was  tlien  only 
equal  to  eight  pence  lawful  money. — ^^  Hutch,  hist.  1  v,  p. 
402.— ^^  lb.  395.— ''1^.  Eng.  Ent.  3  v.  158.—=^  The  papers  on 
this  subject  are  recorded  in  K.  Eng.  Ent.  3  v.  p.  188-96. 

"  Among  other  great  persons,  who  promoted  the  designs 
of  the  agents,  were  the  notorious  Lord  Wharton  and  that  re- 
nowned political  lady  the  Countess  of  Sunderland.  Hutch, 
hist.  1  V.  p.  389,  2  v.  p.  13.  Though  the  real  causes  of  the 
disagreement  between  William  and  his  ministers  witli  regard 
to  New  England,  or  of  the  extraordinary  influence  of  Mather, 
cannot  be  clearly  demonstrated,  yet  they  may  be  easily  guessed. 
The  general  Court,  writing  to  this  Agent  in  January  1689-90, 
say :  "  We  have  endeavoured  to  make  some  provision  by  this 
conveyance  for  the  discharge  of  our  jtist  debts  in  England,  and 
refer  it  to  yourself  and  others  our  friends  joined  with  you  in 
Commission,  to  make  some  suitable  ^present  unto  such  of  those 
honourable  gentlemen  who  ham  befi'iended  and  assisted  our 
affairs  at  the  Court ^  unto  divers  of  whom  we  have  written  par- 
ticularly." [Col.  of  pap.  relat.  affairs  of  Mass*  by  Mr.  Hutch- 
inson p.  576.]  The  governor  and  Council  wrote  in  1692,  to 
the  archbishop  of  Canterbury,  the  Earl  of  Nottingliam,  the 
Countess  of  Sunderland,  Hugh  Boscawen,  John  Hampden  and 
Francis  Charlton,  "  thankfully  acknowledging  tlie  favour  Mr. 
Mather  the  Agent  had  received  from  them""    Hutch,  liist.  2  v. 

&13.  Nicholson  and  Fletcher,  the  governors  of  Virginia  and 
ew  York,  informed  the  ministers  of  William  of  what  perhaps 
was  not  very  agreeable  to  them ;  "  that  it  was  the  universal 
opinion  in  New  England,  that  any  thing  could  be' procured  at 
Whitehall  fo-r  money. ''^  [See  their  letters  among  the  papers 
of  those  Colonies.] 

^^  See  the  various  writings  on  this  subject,  which  gave  rise 
to  a  public  controversy.  N.  Eng^  pap.  5  v.  p.  247-317. — ""  For 
all  these  facts  and  the  solicitations  of  the  charter  see  Journ' 
pi.  off.  V.  7:— and  N.  Eng.  Ent.  3  v.  210-85.— "  There  is  a 
copy  of  this  Charter  annexed  to  the  laws  of  the  province.  .The 
draught  of  this  patent  has  been  attributed  to  several  persons ; 
to  Somers,  Locke  and  to  others  :  "It  is  more  probable  that  it 
should  come  from  Mr.  Blathwayt,  says  Mr.  Hutchinson,  be- 
cause there  are  so  many  inaccuracies  in  it."  Hist.  1  v.  411. 
There  is  the  Draught  of  the  charter  proposed  by  the  attorney 
general,  the  8  June  1691.  N.  Eng.  pap.  5  v.  p.  543.  That 
which  was  finally  settled  by  Treby  and  signed  by  him  the  6 
of  September  is  in  the  same  v.  p.  621  :  And  there  is  a  memo- 
randum on  it  in  Blathwayts  hand :  "  This  is  Mr.  Attorney's 
draught."     And  it  was  finally  prepared  by  the  Committee  for 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  91 

Colonies  and  presented  to  the  Queen  in  Council,  who  ajDproved 
of  it.  K  Eng.  Ent.  3  v.  298.—"  The  agents  prayed :  That 
the  assembly  might  be  empowered  by  express  words  to  raise 
reasonable  taxes  for  the  necessary  support  of  the  plantation." 
N.  Eng.  Ent.  3  v.  p.  256.  For  the  General  Court  under  the 
ancient  Charter  had  no  such  authority.  But  could  a  King  of 
England  grant  what  he  did  not  himself  possess?  The  agents 
also  proposed  what  is  very  remarkable :  "  That  the  cliarter 
should  be  confirmed  by  act  of  Parliament."  lb. — "  There  is 
a  paper  of  "observations  on  the  intended  charter  for  New 
England  "  in  N.  Eng.  pap.  6  v. — worthy  of  the  pen  of  Somers 
and  probably  written  by  him ;  which  of  this  clause  of  the 
patent  remarks :  "  The  inhabitants  to  be  considered  as  natural 
born  subjects :  But  a  right  determined  by  the  common  law  is 
of  no  advantage  to  be  inserted  here." — "  It  appears  from  the 
minutes  of  a  conversation  which  still  remains  in  MSS.  between 
Mather  and  Cooke,  the  two  principal  Agents,  with  regard  to 
the  appointment  of  the  first  governor :  That  the  former  having 
urged,  that  they  ought  to  procure  as  good  a  man  as  possible, 
the  latter  made  answer :  IS'O.  The  worse  the  better ;  because 
it  will  make  the  people  rise.  That  firm  and  Sagacious  repub- 
lican used  his  influence  for  upwards  of  twenty  years  after  "to 
make  the  people  rise,"  because  he  did  not  approve  of  the 
Second  Charter,  and  detested  regal  government  as  an  Usurpa- 
tion. "  The  Commission  and  instructions  are  in  N.  Eng.  Ent. 
3  V.  p.  353-65  :  The  concluding  direction  is  remarkable  :  "  As 
inconveniences  may  arise  from  printing,  you  are  to  })rovide 
that  no  person  keep  a  printing  press,  nor  print  any  book  "  &c, 
without  special  leave.  The  same  clause  was  inserted  in  the 
instructions  to  all  other  Governors  during  the  reign  of  Wil- 
liam.— ""  Treby  approved  of  this  strange  measure  on  the  27 
of  November  1691,  because  the  sole  command  of  the  militia 
had  been  conferred  on  the  King  by  13  Cha:  2"^  Ch.  2.  N.  Eng. 
Ent.  3  V.  364.  The  colonists  at  an  after  day  admitted  the  law : 
But  shrewdly  contended  that  the  King  had  granted  his  power 
to  them.—"  lb.  398.—"  Hutch,  histy.  1  v.  p.  412. 

"  N.  Yk.  Ent.  2  V.  204-83.  The  two  companies  of  soldiers 
then  sent  to  New  York  were  to  be  paid  out  of  the  revenue  of 
England,  till  provision  should  be  made  for  them  at  New  York, 
lb.  246.  One  hundred  pounds  was  sent  for  presents  to  the 
Indians.  lb.  24T. — "  Coldens  hist,  five  nations  p.  91-100. — 
"•  lb.  107-13.—"  lb.  ch.  4.—^^  See  the  proceedings  of  the  Con- 
vention and  other  transactions  N.  York  pap.  2  v.  p.  118 ;  337- 
8-60-449-94.—"  Sloughters  letter  to  the  Secretary  of  State 
N.  Yk.  Ent.  2  v.  p.  204-387-8.—"  The  address.  lb.  301.— 
*'Laws  p.  1-8.— '"lb.  299,  and  Colden  hist,  five  nations  p. 


92  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

124.—"  See  the  Councils  letter  to  the  committee  of  Colonies 
N.  Yk.  Ent,  2  v.  p.  304-8. — ""  Schuylers  journal  in  the  Volume 
of  Indian  papers  pi.  oflF.— '^^  Smith'p.  108-9.— '°N.  Yk.  Ent.  2 
V.  321-62-8-423.— '^  Journ^  plant.  7  v.  p.  91.—"'  lb.  p.  63.— 
"  Journ'  plant,  off.  6  v.  p.  217-20-302.—"  lb.  304.—"  The 
subjoined  letter  from  the  renowned  Chief  Justice  Holt  to  Lord 
Carmarthen  President  of  the  Council,  will  exliibit  a  sad  ex- 
ample how  much  the  attentions  of  the  great  shake  the  finnest 
minds.     [The  original  in  the  Maryland  papers  Vol  2.  p.  9.] 

My  Loed, 

I  think  it  had  been  better  if  an  inquisition  had  been  taken 
and  the  forfeiture  committed  by  the  Lord  Baltimore  had  been 
therein  found  before  any  grant  be  made  to  a  new  governor ; 
yet  since  there  is  none,  and  it  being  in  a  case  of  necessity ^  I 
think  the  King  may  by  his  Commission  constitute  a  governor 
whose  authority  will  be  legal,  though  he  must  be  responsible 
to  Lord  Baltimore  for  tlie  profits.  If  an  agreement  can  be 
made  with  Lord  Baltimore  it  will  be  convenient  and  easy  for 
the  governor  that  the  King  shall  appoint.  An  Inquisition 
may  at  any  time  be  taken  if  the  forfeiture  be  not  pardoned  of 
which  there  is  some  doubt.  I  am  &c. 

J.  Holt. 

Sergeants  Inn, 

3"^  June  1690. 

Lord  Baltimore  having  refused  to  sign  a  Commission  ap- 
pointing Governor  Copley  in  his  name  with  the  Kings  appro- 
bation in  conformity  to  the  advice  of  Holt,  because  it  was  de- 
structive of  the  powers  of  the  Charter,  a  Commission  of  a  very 
different  kind  was  referred  by  the  Lords  of  the  Committee  of 
Colonies  to  Treby  the  Attorney  General  in  August  1690.  And 
the  following  paper  will  not  only  shew  his  sentiments  on  that 
occasion,  but  that  his  temper  was  not  quite  so  complying  as 
Holts.     [Same  papers,  No.  14-15.] 

May  it  please  your  Lordships. 
In  obedience  to  your  Lordships  order  of  reference  I  have 
perused  the  draught  of  the  commission  therein  mentioned  and 
am  of  opinion  as  followeth :  I  understand  the  seizure  of  tlie 
government  to  be  for  necessity,  as  being  the  only  means  for 
preserving  the  province.  The  nature  of  the  seizure  only  is,  to 
take  the  government  out  of  liands  that  neglected  and  en- 
dangered it  into  the  Kings  hands :  But  the  laws  and  customs 
and  the  properties  of  the  inhabitants  are  to  be  preserved  as  far 
as  may  be.  I  do  not  know  whether  or  how  far  the  particulars 
in  this  draught  are  agreeable  to  the  laws  and  manner  of  gov- 


CHALMERS  S    POLITICAL    ANNALS.  93 

emment  which  have  been  settled  there  or  may  be  prejudicial 
to  the  interests  of  the  inhabitants.  1  did  draw  a  Commission, 
general,  reciting  the  confusion  that  was  now  there  and  the 
danger  of  losing  the  province  to  the  Enemies,  and  the  ne- 
cessity of  taking  it  into  his  majestys  hands  and  thereupon 
constituting  a  governor  there  to  govern  according  to  the  laws 
of  the  place  (and  as  the  administration  ought  to  have  been  by 
the  former  governor)  and  to  defend  the  province  and  take  and 
apply  the  public  revenue  to  that  purpose.  And  I  see  no  cause 
to  depart  therefrom,  or  to  recommend  this  present  Draught 
hereunto  annexed ;  not  knowing  that  the  particulars  therein 
contained  are  agreeable  to  the  settled  orders  of  government 
there,  or  absolutely  necessary  for  the  preservation  of  the  prov- 
ince. 

All  which  is  humbly  submitted  to  your  Lordships  great 
wisdom.  Geo  Teeby. 

1  September  1690. 

''  Ealph.  hist.  Eng.— "  On  the  15  of  January  1690-1,  the 
Privy  Council  ordered :  That  the  Lord  Chief  Justice  Holt  and 
Mr.  Attorney  General  do  settle  a  draught  of  a  Commission 
from  His  majesty ;  Lionel  Copley  to  be  governor  of  Maryland, 
according  to  such  directions  as  were  this  day  given  them  by 
his  majesty  at  this  Board.  [Copy  of  the  order  in  the  paper 
office  No.  23,  p.  16,] — °'  See  these  facts  in  Maryland  pap. 
plant,  off.  vol.  2.  p.  45. — '°  See  Trebys  report  before  mention- 
ed.—'" Paper  off.  No.  23.  p.  7.—"  There  is  a  copy  of  this  Com- 
mission among  the  Maryland  pap.  2  v.  with  these  words  in- 
dorsed :  I  approve  of  this  commission — John  Holt — and  lower — 
Geo  Treby.— "  On  the  2'^  April  1691,  The  Privy  Council  or- 
dered :  Tliat  the  Commissioners  of  the  Privy  seal  do  forthwith 
dispatch  the  Commission  of  Lionel  Copley  as  governor  of 
Maryland,  unless  they  have  any  reason  for  any  further  delay 
of  it ;  in  which  case  they  are  to  acquaint  the  Lords  of  the 
most  honourable  Privy  Council  on  tuesday  next  with  their 
reasons  for  so  doing.  Paper  off.  No.  23,  p.  11. — "  Hobarts 
rep.  317; — Giberts  Excheq''  132;  Commentaries  3  v.  p.  259. — 
'"It  was  enacted  by  the  Statute  11-12  Wm.  3  ch.  §26,  that 
Charles  Lord  Baltimore  may  reverse  his  outlawry,  being  out- 
lawed by  mistake. — "  Journ^  plant,  off.  6  v.  p.  359  ;  7  v.  1-2. 

"  Joiirni  plant,  off.  6  v.  p.  211 ;— Car.  Ent.  2  v.  p.  157- 
201.—"  For  those  facts  see  Car.  Ent.  No.  2,  p.  172-198.—"  lb. 
212-17-223-25-26.—"  Car.  Ent.  No.  3,  p.  1-12. 


94  THE  CONTINUATION    OF 


CHAPTER    III. 

Affairs  of  England. — State  of  Virginia  at  the  arrival  of 
Andros :  His  administration. — Government  of  Maryland 
seized  hy  William  without  legal  process: — Commission 
and  arrival  of  Copley  the  first  royal  governor  : — Proceed- 
ings of  the  AssemHy  /  and  disappointment  of  the  province : 
— Provisional  Commission  of  Andros : — And  the  prudent 
rule  of  Nichohon. —  The  miseries  of  Ma!<sachusetts  at  the 
a/rrival  of  Phipps  ; — his  irregularities :  The  Indian  wars; 
— and  domestic  regulations  : — His  rccal. — Stoughton 
succeeds  as  Lieutenant-governor  : — His  prudent  conduct: 
— Invasions  and  distress  of  the  colony. — D either ations  of 
the  ministers  of  England. — Affairs  of  New  Hampshire. 

—  Unhappy  state  of  New  York. — Invaded  from  Canada. 

—  Wars  and  negotiations  of  the  Five  nations. — Troops 
and  warlike  stores  sent  from  England. — Active  admin- 
istration of  Fletcher :  His  conduct  in  Connecticut. — 
Factions  and  Intrigues. — Events  of  the  War. — Prosperity 
of  the  City  of  New  York. — The  Government  of  Penn- 
sylvania seized  into  tJie  king'' s  hands. — Fletcher  appointed 
governor  in  the  room  of  Penn. — His  administration. — 
He  appoints  Markham  his  Deputy. — Public  disputes. — 
Penn  restored. — Subsequent  proceedings. — Affairs  of 
Ca/rolina : — Archdale  restores  its  tranquility. — Deplora- 
Me  state  of  the  Commerce  of  England. — Complaints. — 
The  Board  of  Trade  established. — Projects  for  enabling 
the  Colonies  to  defend  themselves. 


D 


UKING  the  various  transactions  before  recited 
Events  occurred  in  England,  among  the  most 
interesting  in  her  annals.  Though  the  contest  for  the 
dominion  of  Ireland  was  closed  by  the  capitulation  of 
Limerick  in  October,  1691,  a  consuming  war  un- 
attended with  the  gratifications  of  victory  continued. 
The  national  counsels  were  weak  and  unsteady,  because 
the  interested  divisions  of  the  great  embarrassed  every 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  95 

department;  the  exertions  by  sea  and  land  were  feeble  and 
unprosperous,  because  the  secrets  of  the  state  were  be- 
trayed by  men,  who  in  achieving  the  revolution  seemed  to 
have  renounced  all  moral  principle  as  unworthy  of  politi- 
cians. The  interests  of  commerce  suffered  beyond  the 
example  of  former  times,  because  it  was  unprotected  and 
the  minds  and  pursuits  of  men  were  turned  to  the  singular 
objects  which  were  then  held  up  to  the  ambition  of  men. 
Amid  the  dissatisfaction  and  complaint,  which,  owing  to 
these  causes,  pervaded  every  part  of  the  three  kingdoms, 
the  greatest  power  of  Europe  attempted  to  restore  the 
abdicated  king  by  a  powerful  invasion,  because  it  was 
hoped  that  his  restoration  would  restore  the  former 
system  of  peace  and  good  offices.  Yet  England,  partly 
by  accident  perhaps  more  by  exertions  to  which  she  had 
been  thought  unequal,  not  only  repelled  her  enemies 
but  cherished  and  defended  even  her  transatlantic 
provinces  the  fate  of  which  was  mvolved  in  her  own. 
When  governor  Andros  arrived  in  September,  1692,  he 
found  Virginia  in  a  state  of  tranquility.  Yet  owing  to 
the  distresses  of  the  war,  perhaps  to  the  interestedness 
of  the  English  merchants,  the  planters  were  extremely 
distressed,  because  neither  their  usual  wants  were  sup- 
plied nor  was  their  onty  staple  purchased  with  the 
accustomed  avidity.  And  while  the  exertions  of  every 
one  were  thus  discouraged  he  found  the  public  revenue 
greatly  in  arrears,  because  it  decreased  in  proportion 
as  the  commerce  of  the  colony  was  interrupted.  He 
distributed  among  the  militia  the  arms  and  ammunition, 
which  William  had  granted  equally  to  the  prayers  of  the 
assembly  and  to  his  solicitations,  which  tlie  endeavours 
of  his  predecessor  had  been  unable  to  discipline.  Yet 
during  this  unfavourable  state  of  things  he  gave  aid  to  a 
distressed  neighbour.  He  transmitted  £500  to  the 
governor  of  New  York,  who  asked  for  that  aid  which 
the  common  Sovereign  of  both  had  commanded  him  to 
give,  from  a  fund  already  overburdened.^  In  order  to 
consider  the  state  of  the  colony  the  Assembly  was  con- 
vened in  March   1693.     It  suspended  the  execution  of 


96  THE    CONTINUATION   OF 

the  act  for  ports,  because  it  thouglit  that  innovations  in 
political  Economy  during  domestic  distresses  are  danger- 
ous. It  passed  an  act  "  for  the  encouragement  of  Full- 
ing-Mills  ; "  in  order  to  procure  at  home  a  supply  of 
clothing  which  the  manufacturers  of  England  seemed 
unwilling  to  provide.  And  it  strengthened  the  frontiers 
against  Indian  attacks  by  "  continuing  the  rangers  at  the 
heads  of  the  four  great  rivers :"  Judging  wisely  that  it 
was  of  more  importance  to  prevent  misfortune  than  to 
alleviate  distress.^ 

Andros  again  called  an  Assembly  in  October  1693  ; 
in  order  to  submit  to  its  consideration  the  Queens  com- 
mands. It  continued  to  encourage  the  manufactures 
of  the  colony,  though  a  late  act,  proceeding  from  similar 
policy  had  been  dissented  to  in  England,  because  it  was 
deemed  inconsistent  with  her  interests.  With  a  laudable 
spirit  it  "  ascertained  the  place  for  erecting  the  college 
of  William  and  Mary  ;  "  establishing  at  the  same  time  a 
small  revenue  for  its  support.^ 

But  to  two  laws  recommended  by  their  Sovereign 
the  Buro-esses  refused  their  assent :  assignino;  as  reasons 
what  shews  the  state  and  prejudices  of  the  province ; 
that  as  to  the  bill  for  ports  they  deemed  it  burdensome 
during  the  present  distresses  ;  that  as  to  that  prohibit- 
ing the  exportation  of  bulk-tobacco,  it  would  be  equally 
prejudicial  to  the  interests  of  their  Majesty  and  the 
country.*  Thus  the  Burgesses  sternly  denied  to  the 
requests  of  the  gentle  Mary  which  they  had  refused  to 
the  ungracious  James :  And  thus  evincing  to  all  rulers 
that  it  is  in  vain  to  recommend  laws  to  a  people  unless 
they  are  previously  instructed  in  their  policy,  or  are 
convinced  of  their  use.  Yet  at  a  future  day  we  shall 
behold  the  supreme  legislature  of  the  state  applying  that 
remedy  to  a  disease  which  wasted  the  national  commerce 
which  was  now  asked  for  from  a  territorial  assembly 
without  success.^  In  the  meantime  the  defenceless  state 
of  Virginia  had  been  regarded  in  England  as  meriting 
attention.  Arms  and  warlike  stores  of  great  value  were 
sent  thither,  in  consequence  of  the  solicitations  of  the 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  97 

Governor,  who  was  ordered  to  pay  for  them  out  of  the 
royal  revenue  of  quit  rents,  because  that  dominion  then 
complained  of  its  poverty.''  But  informations  having 
been  received  that  an  illicit  trade  was  carried  on  with 
Scotland  and  other  countries  Andros  was  directed  "  to 
hire  vessels  to  cruize  against  illegal  traders."  And 
every  endeavour  to  procure  colonial  aid  for  New  York 
having  failed  of  the  desired  success,  as  the  several  pro- 
vinces had  either  refused  or  neglected  to  adjust  their 
several  proportions,  the  various  quotas  of  men  and 
money  were  apportioned  by  William  in  August  1694, 
and  the  governor  was  ordered  to  furnish  that  of 
Virginia.'  It  was  deemed  just,  that  as  New  York 
formed  a  barrier  which  ensured  that  dominion  an  ad- 
vantageous peace  during  the  war,  it  ought  in  return  to 
grant  equivalent  aid. 

With  a  view  therefore  to  lay  the  requisitions  of  his 
sovereign  before  the  assembly  Andros  again  convened 
it  in  April  1695.  To  its  consideration  he  now  recom- 
mended the  supplies  for  New  York,  suitable  salaries  for 
the  clergy,  and  proper  encouragement  for  the  College. 
The  Burgesses  tliought  however  the  established  stipends 
of  the  ministers  sufficient.  They  referred  the  provision 
for  the  college  to  a  future  assembly.  But  while  they 
regretted  the  poverty  of  their  own  country,  and  the 
annual  expence  in  defending  its  frontiers,  they  could 
not  perceive  the  advantages  which  was  supposed  to 
result  to  them  from  the  exertions  of  their  neighbour 
which  did  not  protect  their  borders.  And  they  declined 
to  comply.  Yet  the  importunity  of  the  governor  at 
length  extorted  a  law  empowering  him  with  the  advice 
of  the  Council  to  apply  £500  sterling  to  the  assistance 
of  New  York,  should  it  be  found  necessary.^  And  to 
William  they  represented  in  language,  which  evinces  as 
well  the  state  of  the  colony  as  the  spirit  of  the  people : 
That  though  the  safety  of  New  York  may  add  to  their 
security,  yet  being  reduced  to  a  very  low  condition  by 
their  debts,  and  the  daily  apprehension  of  an  attack 
from  foreign  Indians,  putting  them  to  great  charge  to 
7 


98  THE    COlSrTI'NUATION    OF 

secure  their  borders,  together  with  the  poverty  of  the 
inhabitants  owing  to  the  low  price  of  tobacco,  they  are 
become  utterly  incapable  of  affording  any  aid  to  that 
Colony:  And  they  prayed  therefore  to  be  exempted 
from  all  contributions  of  that  nature.  In  conformity  to 
this  request  Andros  was  ordered  at  an  after  day  to 
transmit  the  i^500  granted  by  the  Assembly,  which 
should  be  considered  as  the  quota  before  mentioned  till 
further  orders.^  Nevertheless  the  Burgesses  with  a 
becoming  spirit  not  only  supported  the  usual  number 
of  rangers  at  the  head  of  the  four  great  rivers,  James, 
York,  Rappahannock,  and  Potomack,  but  granted  a 
supply  for  an  additional  company ;  which  had  been 
raised  during  the  preceding  year  upon  the  appearance 
of  "  strange  Indians  "  on  the  skirts  of  the  Colony.  They 
conceded  what  was  usual  and  necessary ;  they  refused 
what  was  new  and  of  uncertain  utility.  But  before  the 
orders  of  William  granting  an  exemption  arrived,  the 
pressing  solicitations  of  the  governor  of  New  York  had 
induced  Andros  to  direct  the  quota  of  men  to  be  sent 
thither  by  sea,  because  he  had  received  repeated  orders, 
which  as  a  Soldier  he  deemed  it  a  point  of  honour  to 
obey.  The  Burgesses  however  who  assembled  in  the 
beginning  of  the  year  1696  disapproved  of  a  measure 
that  it  thought  "of  evil  consequence : "  And  arguments 
were  used  to  no  purpose  to  persuade  them  to  grant  any 
further  aid  to  a  distressed  neighbour,  since  they  saw 
not  the  good  that  was  to  result  to  the  Virginians  from 
her  exertions.^''  Andros  considering  the  before  men- 
tioned supply  of  the  Assembly  as  inadequate  either  to 
its  ability  or  to  the  wants  of  New  York  transmitted 
thither  £600  with  directions  to  levy  men  in  that  colony ; 
without  reflecting  that  it  was  already  exhausted.  Sensi- 
ble of  the  royal  favours  in  suspending  the  quota,  in 
paying  for  warlike  stores  and  in  supplying  the  defi- 
ciencies of  the  ordinary  revenue,  and  of  the  quit  rents, 
the  Council  gave  thanks  to  that  monarch,  grateful  not 
so  much  in  proportion  to  the  amount  of  the  sums  which 
he  contributed  to  the  public  service,  as  to  his  ability  to 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  99 

give.  During  the  administration  of  Anclros  Virginia 
enjoyed  the  blessings  of  profound  tranquillity,  attended 
however  with  that  insignificance,  which  neitlier  affords 
matter  to  the  Annalist,  nor  adds  anything  to  the  renown 
of  nations :  She  neither  complained  of  grievances  nor 
felt  any ;  except  the  depreciation  of  her  only  staple 
which  necessarily  arose  fi^om  European  warfare ;  except 
from  the  distresses  that  must  ever  result  from  the  indo- 
lence of  a  people  who  feel  not  the  energy  of  the  com- 
mercial spirit.  And  Andros  has  ^Titten  his  own  pane- 
gyric by  ruling  a  placid  province  with  that  success  as 
to  transmit  few  materials  to  history  whicli  has  been 
unjust  to  his  fame.^^ 

The  neighbouring  Colony  on  the  north  had  mean- 
while imdergone  a  considerable  change.  Governor  Cop- 
ley found  the  convention  of  Maryland  sitting  when  he 
arrived  in  April  1692.  And  having  announced  his  new 
authority  he  instantly  dissolved  it  While  his  commission 
and  instructions  seemed  to  respect  the  laws,  the  fabrick 
of  government  which  was  now  erected  was  built  on  the 
supposition  that  neither  the  Charter  nor  ancient  Consti- 
tution had  any  existence.  With  the  same  spirit  which 
dictated  this  unworthy  policy,  the  Council  and  the 
various  offices  were  filled  with  those  who  liad  been  most 
active  in  procuring  the  present  change ;  excluding  from 
the  government  the  most  experienced  and  respectable 
of  the  inhabitants.  In  pursuance  of  his  powers  he  soon 
called  an  assembly ;  which  during  the  present  ferment 
was  filled  with  those  who  were  ready  to  support  with 
their  votes  Avhatever  should  be  given  them  in  charge.^- 

Copley  harangued  them  in  language  extremely  suit- 
able to  the  present  state  of  the  minds  of  men.  lie 
enveighed :  When  the  King  upon  your  address  to  have 
a  protestant  governor  had  declared  his  gracious  inten- 
tions of  sending  me  among  you,  you  are  sensible  of  the 
restless  endeavours  of  some  persons  to  obstruct  it :  Yet 
tlie  difficulties  and  hazards  I  run  through  did  not  at  all 
daunt  me  from  hastening  to  you,  proposing  chiefly  to 
myself  the  satisfaction  of  seeing  a  foundation  laid  for  a 


100  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

lasting  happiness  to  you  and  your  posterity:  The 
making  of  wholesome  laws  and  the  laying  aside  of 
animosities  will  go  far  towards  it.  And  he  concluded 
with  what  formed  the  substance  of  all  speeches  during 
those  days,  with  a  demand  of  liberal  supplies  for  sup- 
porting the  honour  of  tlie  post  with  which  the  king  had 
honoured  him.^^  And  the  Delegates  not  only  returned 
him  thanks,  but  with  an  uncommon  strain  of  liberality 
rewarded  "  his  hazards  and  dangers  "  with  what  was  of 
more  real  importance.  They  gave  him  a  present  of  one 
hundred  thousand  pounds  of  tobacco  ;  they  conferred  on 
him  alone  by  an  indefinite  law  the  revenue  of  one  shil- 
ling on  each  hogshead  of  tobacco  exported,  which  from 
the  year  1671,  had  been  a  competent  salary  for  the 
governor  and  a  suitable  encouragement  to  the  counsel- 
lors ;  they  gave  him  an  additional  duty  of  three  pence 
on  every  hogshead  during  three  years ;  while  taverns 
were  regulated  the  money  thence  arising  was  added 
during  the  same  term ;  at  the  same  time  that  naval 
offices  were  established  considerable  fees  were  ordered  to 
be  paid  to  liim :  And  as  if  there  could  be  no  end  to  their 
bounty  the  fees  of  officers  being  regulated  he  Avas  allowed 
considerable  perquisites.^*  Yet  amid  this  unexampled 
profusion,  the  old  remembered  the  speech  of  Lord  Balti- 
more's last  governor,  who  informed  them  in  very  dif- 
ferent language,  that  he  had  nothing  to  ask,  but  was 
ready  to  assent  to  such  salutary  laws  as  tliey  might 
think  proper  to  enact.  Nor  did  the  Burgesses  stop 
here  :  They  conferred  one  hundred  thousand  pounds  of 
tobacco  on  Chelseldyne,  the  speaker,  and  ten  thousand 
pounds  on  Jowles,  the  commander  of  the  troops,  because 
to  their  zeal  and  activitj^  the  present  change  was  greatly 
owing.^^  A  duty  of  four  pence  a  gallon  on  liquors 
imported  was  imposed ;  as  well  for  discharging  "  the 
debts  of  the  late  government  by  a  committee  of  safety 
and  the  pay  of  the  soldiers,  as  for  the  repairing  of  Court 
houses  and  prisons,  for  the  raising  a  better  allowance  to 
Counsellors  and  judges  of  the  provincial  court  and  the 
payment  of  an  agent  in  England.""     Copley  with  a  dis- 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  101 

ingenuity  unworthy  of  his  station  but  characteristic  of 
the  man,  concealed  that  part  of  his  instructions  which 
required  him  "  to  permit  Lord  Baltimore  to  receive  the 
duty  of  fourteen  pence  a  ton  on  shipping."  This  revenue 
which  had  been  received  from  the  year  1661,  as  a  part 
of  the  private  estate  of  that  nobleman,  was  now  invested 
by  the  assembly  in  their  Majestys  for  the  support  of 
government :  The  Burgesses  stoutly  insisting  tliat  many 
of  them  remembered  "  how  the  same  was  granted  for 
the  countries  use,  which  ever  was  called  fort  duties  and 
not  port  duties,  and  according  to  the  intention  of  the 
law-makers  doth  belong  to  the  Crown.""  Lord  Balti- 
more's agents  were  ordered  to  collect  no  longer  those 
taxes  till  the  royal  pleasure  should  be  known.  ^^  But 
that  nobleman's  spirit  was  not  so  broken  Ij)^  misfortunes 
as  to  sink  under  a  persecution  as  unjust  as  it  was  un- 
merited. And  he  applied  to  William  for  protection. 
The  solicitor  general  Trevor  reported :  That  upon  the 
words  of  the  act  this  duty  belongs  to  Lord  Baltimore 
to  be  received  to  his  private  use,  and  it  would  be  of 
most  dangerous  consequence  to  admit  parole  proof  of 
the  intention  of  the  law-makers,  different  from  the  words 
of  the  law,  so  the  assembly  admitted  that  this  duty 
belonged  to  him  by  desiring  the  ro}-al  assent  to  an  act 
to  invest  it  in  their  Majestys.  The  privy-council  did 
honour  to  itself  when  it  confirmed  this  report  in 
February  1693.^^  And  the  self-denial  of  William  in 
refusing  thougli  he  was  poor  the  spoils  of  an  individual 
when  pressed  on  him  by  a  popular  assembly  actuated 
by  unworthy  motives  adds  more  to  his  fame,  than  the 
most  glorious  of  his  victories.  The  assembly  in  its 
hatred  of  popery  at  this  time  laid  the  foundation  "  of 
the  establishment  of  the  protestant  religion : "  The 
counties  were  for  the  first  time  divided  into  parishes 
laid  out;  Vestries  were  established;  forty  pounds  of 
tobacco  were  imposed  on  every  taxable  for  the  use  of 
the  minister :  And  the  ChuR^h  of  England  was  declared 
"  to  have  and  enjoy  all  her  rights  and  liberties  wholly 
inviolate  as  she  now  is  or  shall  be  established  by  law.'' 


102  THE  CONTINUATION    OF 

Yet  it  required  a  considerable  length  of  years  to  perfect 
this  system,  because  it  was  opposed  by  protestant  dis- 
senters, who  thought  their  zeal  ill-requited  in  being  re- 
duced nearly  to  a  level  with  papists.  Among  a  variety 
of  other  regulations  this  law  enacted  ;  "  that  the  great 
charter  of  England  shall  be  observed  in  all  points."  ^* 
But  when  the  acts  of  this  session  were  laid  before  the 
Solicitor  General  Trevor  at  a  subsequent  day  he  found 
no  objection  to  any  except  the  clause  introductory  of  the 
great  Charter:  Giving  as  a  reason  what  sliews  how 
little  he  had  studied  the  jurisprudence  of  Maryland; 
"that  he  knew  not  how  far  the  enacting  thereof  will  be 
agreealile  to  the  Constitution  of  the  province  or  to  the 
royal  prerogative."  And  this  law  was  disallowed  by 
William,  because  he  was  advised  "  that  the  clause  ob- 
jected to  by  Trevor  was  of  a  different  nature  than  what 
is  set  forth  in  the  bill."  ^^  When  the  real  patriots  of  the 
colony  looked  back  on  former  times  they  remarked  with 
a  sigh :  That  under  the  great  founder  of  the  Colony, 
and  his  successor  against  whom  they  lately  revolted,  the 
colonists  had  enjoyed  Magna  Charta  as  the  corner- 
stone of  the  Constitution.  The  present  rulers,  conscious 
of  the  arts  by  which  they  had  got  into  power  and 
anxious  least  similar  means  should  he  used  to  lessen  their 
importance,  procured  a  law  "against  the  divulgers  of 
false  news."  ^'^  Having  thus  provided  for  internal  quiet, 
they  thought  it  prudent  to  guard  against  foreign  invasion, 
by  "regulating  the  militia."  A  long  list  of  various 
regulations,  either  redressive  of  present  evils  or  intro- 
ductive  of  useful  regulations,  was  closed  by  an  "act  re- 
pealing all  laws  theretofore  made."  '^^  Nor  could  any 
measure  be  more  necessary  in  a  province,  where  so  great 
a  change  had  been  introduced  directly  contrary  to  the 
charter  and  to  the  fundamental  laws.  The  assembly 
did  not  forget,  because  Copley  was  their  faithful  monitor, 
"  to  return  their  humble  thanks  to  William  for  redeem- 
ing them  from  a  tyrannical  popish  government;  for 
taking  tliem  under  his  immediate  protection  ;  for  sending 
them  a  protestant  governor,  whose  loyalty  and  integrity 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  103 

had  been  experienced ;  for  transmitting  the  Colony  a 
supply  of  warlike  stores."  ^"^  Yet  it  was  asked  by  the 
aged,  what  had  Maryland  acc[uired  besides  a  protestant 
governor?  The  ancient  Constitution  under  which  it 
had  flourished  was  shaken  to  the  center ;  that  unanimity 
so  often  recommended  by  Cecilius  the  wise,  which  had 
given  it  wealth  and  greatness,  was  destroyed;  unex- 
ampled taxes  were  imposed  for  the  gratification  of  un- 
worthy objects,  the  indubitable  right  of  the  provincials 
to  the  great  Charter  and  the  invaluable  piivileges  which 
it  declares  and  enforces,  had  been  denied.  This  province 
adds  one  more  example  to  the  numbers  to  be  met  with 
in  history  of  countries,  which  amid  their  public  distrac- 
tions, have  thrown  behind  them  the  substance  they 
possessed,  in  order  to  grasp  the  shadow  they  could  not 
enjoy. 

Notwithstanding  the  various  reports  of  an  intended 
invasion  of  foreign  enemies  which  the  late  council  of 
safety  had  propagated  to  terrify  the  people,  Maryland 
happily  did  not  feel  the  miseries  of  that  dreadful  scourge 
in  superaddition  to  the  infelicities  of  civil  discord. 
Agreeably  to  the  laudable  custom  of  ancient  times 
Copley  renewed  the  annual  league  with  the  domestic 
tribes.  The  province  only  felt  the  common  inconveni- 
ence experienced  by  every  part  of  the  Empire,  by  having 
her  commerce  interrupted  and  the  price  of  her  cliief 
commodity  considerably  diminished.  The  governor  and 
Council,  hearing  of  the  distresses  of  New  York  contri- 
buted one  hundred  pounds  towards  their  alleviation, 
and  with  a  spirit  worthy  of  imitation  they  professed 
their  readiness  to  give  further  su]j[)lies  in  proportion  to 
their  abilities.  While  Copley  extended  liis  inquiries  to 
other  colonies  he  gave  warning  to  his  Sovereign  that  the 
province  over  which  he  presided  "never  would  be 
happy  till  Lord  Baltimore's  interest  was  bought  out," 
because  wliile  his  coimexion  continues  his  party  will  be 
considerable.-^  The  decease  of  the  governor  in  the  sub- 
sequent year  extricated  Maryland  from  an  administra- 
tion as  remarkable  for  its  violence  as  for  an  interested- 


104  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

ness  that  had  sullied  the  reputation  of  a  man  but  dis- 
graced the  mao;istrate. 

When  former  inconveniences  as  well  as  the  critical 
state  of  Maryland  were  considered  it  was  deemed  prudent 
to  give  Andros  a  provincial  commission  as  commander- 
in-chief  over  this  province,  in  case  of  the  death  or 
absence  of  the  governor.  Upon  the  decease  of  Copley 
in  September  1693,  he  hastened  thither;  as  this  event 
had  given  energy  to  a  power  which  had  meanwhile  lain 
dormant.  What  sagacity  had  forseen,  experience  now 
discovered  to  be  perfectly  just.  For  "the  greatest 
contests  liad  arisen  who  should  be  President  of  the 
Council,"  and  thereby  exercise  the  chief  authority,  be- 
cause man  is  everywhere  ambitious  and  contends  for 
preeminence.  But  all  submitted  to  the  commission  of 
Andros  to  which  there  could  be  no  objection.  He  dis- 
solved the  Assembly  which  was  then  sitting ;  he  decided 
the  controversy  with  regard  to  the  Presidency  in  favour 
of  Greenbury ;  he  confirmed  all  officers,  except  Blackis- 
ton  the  judge  for  probate  of  wills,  who  had  neglected 
his  duty.^*  In  pursuance  of  the  orders  of  his  Sovereign 
he  transmitted  to  New  York  an  aid  of  =6250  sterling 
from  the  revenue  for  the  support  of  government.  And 
he  soon  departed,  leaving  the  province  in  peace,  under 
the  care  of  the  President  of  the  Council.  He  returned 
thither  however  in  May  1694.  And  he  reinstated  Sir 
Thomas  Lawrence,  the  Secretary,  who  had  been  over- 
born by  the  violence  of  Copley,  who  was  now  appointed 
Chief  Justice  and  President  of  the  province.  Under 
the  administration  of  this  man,  no  less  remarkable  for 
his  good  sense  than  for  his  spirit  and  moderation, 
Maryland  enjoyed  great  tranquillity  till  the  arrival  of 
Nicholson,  who  was  not  long  after  appointed  his  suc- 
cessor.^^ Nevertheless  the  Assembly,  animated  at  an 
after  day  by  a  spirit  of  caution,  which  often  creates  a 
doubt  with  regard  to  the  validity  of  transactions  that 
admit  of  none,  passed  a  law  "  for  confirmation  of  pro- 
ceedings, judicial,  civil,  and  military,  from  the  decease 
of  Copley,  till  the  arrival  of  the  present  governor."  ^^ 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  105 

In  the  meantime  Maryland  profitted  from  an  illegal 
traffick.  The  merchants  of  London  complained  that  a 
direct  commerce  was  carried  thence  to  Scotland  and 
Ireland,  which  was  equally  injurious  to  them  and  to  the 
revenue  of  the  State.  And  orders  were  transmitted 
"  to  hire  a  light  vessel  to  prevent  this  in  future,"  because 
their  complaints  appeared  to  be  just."  Situated  at  an 
envied  distance  from  Canada  and  protected  by  tlie 
mighty  barrier  formed  by  the  North  Eastern  colonies 
but  above  all  by  the  Five  Nations,  Maryland  during  the 
present  war  never  felt  the  stroke  of  an  enemy. 

Nevertheless  the  departure  of  Maryland  from  that 
prudent  policy  which  had  reared  her  to  youth  ga\e  the 
neighbouring  colonies  an  opportunity  of  profitting  from 
her  rashness.  Nor  did  the  arrival  of  Nicliolson,  who 
was  appointed  her  ruler  in  December  1693,  because  he 
had  given  satisfaction  in  Virginia,  stop  the  emigrations 
that  had  been  put  in  motion  by  the  late  disorders :  They 
contmued,  because  the  friends  of  the  ancient  Constitution, 
though  tlie  descendants  of  the  original  planters,  were 
oppressed  by  the  subsequent  administration,  composed 
of  new  men  and  therefore  insolent.  And  that  gentle- 
man found  the  province  greatly  indebted  even  from  the 
dissolution  of  Lord  Baltimore's  government,  and  dis- 
tracted by  divisions,  which  he  tried  to  no  purpose  to 
unite.  In  vain  lie  tried  expedients  to  remove  what  he 
greatly  deplored,  while  those  whom  he  described  as 
"  the  ablest  men  for  parts  and  estate "  were  unjustly 
excluded  from  trust  and  even  deprived  of  the  common 
rights  of  Englishmen.  To  these  infelicities  others  were 
added  of  a  very  distressing  nature.  A  considerable 
part  of  the  only  staple  of  the  province  remained  imsold 
"  for  want  of  ships  to  carry  it  away."  A  languid  com- 
merce was  little  able  to  supply  the  inhal)itants  with 
those  various  domestic  necessaries  which  they  Avanted 
the  most.  And  infected  by  the  example  of  Pennsylvania 
they  attempted  to  establish  maiuifactures  and  continued 
an  illicit  trade,  as  contrary  to  the  laws  as  to  the  interests 
of  England,  whilst  unaided  she  was  lighting  their  battles. 


106  THE    CONTINUATION   OF 

At  tlie  same  time  that  Nicholson  informed  the  ministers 
of  William,  "that  the  English  merchants  discouraged 
the  planters"  the  former  complained  of  the  otliers 
irregularities  so  inconsistent  with  their  views.  And 
the  governor  was  instantly  commanded  "  to  hire  vessels 
to  cruize  against  illegal  traders,"  because  the  clamour 
of  merchants  is  in  England  attentively  heard.  It  was 
to  little  purpose  to  apply  to  the  provincial  Courts  of 
justice,  since  it  was  almost  impossible  to  find  judges  or 
juries  to  condemn  that  as  unlawful  which  was  univer- 
sally deemed  so  convenient.-^ 

In  order  however  to  apply  remedies  to  these  and  to 
other  evils  Nicholson  called  an  Assembly  in  September 
1694.  To  the  Delegates  he  recommended  what  pro- 
moted at  once  his  own  popularity  and  gained  the  favour 
of  his  prince.  The  public  proceedings  from  the  death 
of  Copley  were  now  confirmed,  thougli  it  seems  not  easy 
to  frame  any  valid  objection.  An  act  was  passed  "for 
the  encouragement  of  learning  and  advancement  of  the 
natives  of  the  Province : "  By  excluding  those  from 
offices  of  trust  who  had  not  resided  for  three  years  in 
the  Colony  this  first  drew  an  unjust  distinction,  between 
colonists  and  Englishmen  which  was  afterwards  felt  and 
complained  of.  The  public  quiet  and  private  peace 
were  both  ensured  by  a  law  "  for  quieting  possessions." 
External  security  was  promoted  by  an  act  "  for  appoint- 
ing Rangers  for  the  defence  of  the  province."  Though 
the  domestic  Indians  had  been  reduced  by  European 
diseases  and  vices  to  a  number  extremely  insignificant, 
it  was  now  deemed  prudent  "to prohibit  the  inhabitants 
from  carrying  liquors  to  their  towTis."  Whilst  a  mode 
was  established  for  procuring  speedy  justice  for  small 
debts,  an  act  was  past  "for  the  relief  of  Debtors." 
"Free-schools"  were  for  the  first  time  erected  and  taxes 
imposed  for  their  maintenance.  Punishments  were 
inflicted  on  crimes  dangerous  to  the  purity  of  manners : 
Regulations  favourable  to  the  provincial  connnerce  were 
introduced.  But  at  the  same  time  that  the  intentions 
of  the  Assembly  were  laudable  it  did  not  always  pursue 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  107 

the  steps  which  good  policy  directed :  Far  from  check- 
ing the  desire  of  Emigration,  it  imposed  duties  on  the 
importation  of  white  servants  and  negroes ;  and  the 
general  rule  of  taxation  was  on  the  products  of  the 
Colony  exported  rather  than  the  importation  of  foreign 
luxuries  or  the  estates  of  the  iidiaLitants.  As  if  the 
former  revenue  was  not  sufficient  there  w^as  now  granted 
to  the  governor  three  pence  a  hogshead  on  all  tobacco 
exported  for  the  term  of  three  years.  This  session  is 
remarkable  not  only  for  the  good  sense  of  its  poli(;y  but 
for  adopting  preparatory  measures  for  reinoving  the 
ancient  seat  of  government  from  the  Cit}'  (jf  Saint 
Marys  to  Annapolis  the  present  Capital.  But  as  JMary- 
land  was  happily  exempted  from  the  vicissitudes  of  war 
and  imanimity  reigned  in  the  legislature,  since  exemp- 
tion from  grievances  promoted  confidence,  the  adminis- 
tration of  Nicholson  will  contribute  few  materials  to 
history.^" 

In  the  meantime  however  the  Queen  repeated  her 
injunctions  to  send  a  specific  quota  of  aid  to  New  York 
upon  the  requisition  of  its  ruler. ^^  Tliough  this  colony 
had  experienced  in  some  degree  the  former  bounty  of 
Maryland,  Fletcher  did  not  think  it  equal  to  what  his 
ardent  mind  had  fondly  expected.  And  during  the . 
summer  of  1695  he  repeatedly  demanded  the  one  hun- 
dred and  sixty  men,  which  had  lately  been  appointed  as 
the  measure  of  assistance  by  the  Sovereign  of  both.  The 
administration  of  Maryland,  fearful  of  attacks  from 
foreign  Indians,  and  feeling  her  weakness,  refused  to 
comply.  Yet  the  assembly  in  October  1695  gave  a 
small  sum  ^^  of  money  in  lieu  of  what  had  been  clamour- 
ously  asked.  And  it  resolved  at  the  same  time  in 
language  which  shews  the  temper  of  the  people  "that 
no  further  answer  or  assistance  be  sent  to  New  York 
till  the  King  s  determination  should  be  known."  To 
William  the  assembly  transmitted  an  address ;  "  thank- 
ing him  for  his  former  favours,  and  requesting  to  be 
exenq^ted  from  further  payments  to  New  York,  because 
of  the  indigency  of  his  poor  subjects."     It  represented 


108  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

to  the  Lords  Commissioners  of  Trade,  "  that  the  sums 
formerly  remitted  had  extremely  impoverished  a  people, 
who,  in  the  war  with  the  Indians  which  was  daily  ex- 
pected, saw  nothing  but  ruin  :  And  in  the  plaintive  tone 
of  those  days  it  begged  for  pity  and  for  intercession  with 
the  King  for  his  discharge  from  further  aid  to  a  neigh- 
bour, as  they  could  scarcely  defend  themselves."^''  Nor 
was  this  the  mere  voice  of  declamation,  which  is  too 
often  substituted  for  truth.  Maryland  was  then  debili- 
tated no  less  by  the  successive  failure  of  two  crops,  than 
by  her  total  want  of  commercial  ardour.  And  engaged 
in  the  establishment  of  the  Church  of  England  and  in 
the  erection  of  a  new  Capital,  various  taxes  had  been 
imposed  for  the  completion  of  projects  that  were  perhaps 
beyond  the  abilities  of  a  feeble  community.^  Amid 
these  infelicities  the  colonists  had  the  satisfaction  to  be 
told  by  the  Lords  before  mentioned,  that  while  the  other 
colonies  disgraced  the  English  name  by  their  piracies, 
no  imputation  had  been  cast  on  them.  Yet  a  species 
of  illegal  trade  had  rooted  in  their  policy,  had  grown  up 
to  maturity,  the  fruit  of  which  was  at  length  claimed  as 
part  of  the  common  law  of  the  country.  And  the 
governor  in  the  moment  of  his  zeal  solicited  a  general 
pardon  for  men,  who  did  not  deem  themselves  criminal.^ 
The  public  tranquillity  was  in  some  measure  interrupted 
during  the  year  169 7,  by  the  profligate  intrigues  of 
John  Coode,  who  had  commanded  the  insurgents  that 
atchieved  the  revolution,  and  who  attempted  a  similar 
change  by  overturning  the  government  of  William ; 
since  he  was  too  wicked  to  be  rewarded.  But  he  was 
not  now  supported  by  the  same  popularity,  and  similar 
arts  were  at  this  time  unavailing  because  every  one  yet 
felt  the  sad  consequences  of  recent  occurrences.  Being 
indicted  of  treason  and  blasphemy  that  restless  incendiary 
was  driven  at  length  unpitied  and  friendless  from  a 
province,  whence  he  had  so  lately  obliged  others  to  flee.^^ 
The  governor  gave  warning  to  the  ministers  of  England, 
that  wdiile  any  hopes  remained  of  the  restoration  of 
Lord  Baltimore's  government  Maryland  would  enjoy 


CHALMERS  S    POLITICAL    ANNALS.  109 

perfect  repose.  During  the  four  years  that  Nicholson 
ruled  over  Maryland  he  enjoyed  the  singular  felicity  of 
acquiring  equally  the  approbation  of  his  sovereign  and 
the  affections  of  the  people.  And  his  good  conduct  was 
rewarded  in  the  year  1698  by  his  promotion  to  his 
government  of  Virginia.  He  departed :  Leaving  Mary- 
land in  profound  peace,  extricated  from  her  late  em- 
barrassments, and  cultivating  a  gainful  commerce,  un- 
exampled in  her  annals. 

Meantime  few  countries  were  ever  reduced  to  a 
condition  more  truly  deplorable  than  was  Massachusetts 
in  the  beginning  of  the  year  1692.  Its  North-Eastern 
borders  had  been  frequently  ravaged  by  a  cruel  and 
well  directed  enemy,  whose  depredations  could  not  be 
prevented  or  even  avenged ;  its  coasts  continued  to  be 
infested  by  the  cruizers  of  France,  which  ruined  its 
commerce ;  the  imprudent  expedition  against  Canada 
had  involved  it  in  debts,  which  affected  the  general 
credit,  and  made  it  difficult  to  raise  the  supplies  for 
carrying  on  a  war  from  which  so  little  advantage  is  ever 
acquired ;  its  internal  quiet  was  disturbed  by  the  arts 
of  a  powerful  party  that  was  enthusiastically  attached 
to  the  pristine  charter  and  forms:  But  above  all  "the 
apprehension  that  tlie  Devil  was  let  loose  among  them  " 
affected  greatly  the  minds  of  a  people  who  had  long 
reprobated  every  recreation  as  sinful.  Amid  all  these 
embarrassments  Sir  William  Phips  arrived  at  Boston 
in  May  1692.  And  he  was  received  with  affected  pomp 
by  men,  who  had  prudently  resolved  to  derive  every 
benefit  from  an  innovation  that  they  could  not  prevent. 
The  new  Charter  and  the  royal  Commission  were  soon 
formally  published.  But  the  old  beheld  Avith  sorrow 
the  venerable  Bradstreet,  who  had  for  such  a  length  of 
years  conducted  the  administration  under  tlie  ancient 
government,  resign  the  chair  of  authority  to  his  unwel- 
come successor.  The  present  change  was  however 
scarcely  perceptible :  Almost  the  same  men  continued 
in  power ;  the  laws  and  customs  of  former  times  remain- 
ed :  And  the  spirit  of  the  people,  which  has  everywhere 


110  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

SO  great  an  influence  independent  of  all  municipal  rules, 
had  undergone  little  alteration.^^ 

The  first  attention  of  the  governor  was  attracted  to 
a  kind  of  madness  which  had  for  some  time  afflicted  the 
province.  As  early  as  February  1692  many  persons 
accused  of  witchcraft  had  been  committed  to  prison ; 
though  the  late  administration  animated  with  an  un- 
usual moderation,  had  permitted  none  to  be  tried. 
But  Phips  in  an  evil  hour  was  prevailed  on  to  issue  a 
special  commission,  at  the  head  of  which  was  placed 
Stoughton  the  Lieutenant-governor,  a  man  of  prudence 
and  capacity,  to  inquire  into  the  truth  of  accusations, 
that  threatened  the  destruction  of  the  Colony.  During 
the  first  session  an  ancient  female  was  alone  found 
guilty  upon  evidence  which  satisfied  a  credulous  Court ; 
and  was  soon  after  executed.  Yet  the  governor  enter- 
taining some  scruples  thought  it  prudent  to  follow  the 
practice  of  primitive  times  and  to  consult  the  principal 
ministers  on  the  State  of  the  province.  With  a  rashness 
unbecoming  their  function  these  men  resolved ;  "  that 
the  people  were  then  suffering  by  molestation  from  the 
invisible  world :  "  And  with  a  spirit  unworthy  of  the 
ministers  of  peace,  they  recommended  the  "vigorous 
jDrosecution  of  such  as  had  rendered  themselves  obnox- 
ious, according  to  directions  given  in  the  laws  of  God 
and  the  wholesome  statutes  of  the  English  nation  for 
the  detection  of  witchcrafts."^^  Invigorated  by  an 
advice  which  had  the  effect  of  commands,  the  Court 
proceeded  with  the  greatest  zeal  and  despatch.  And 
nineteen  miserable  objects  were  found  guilty  and  exe- 
cuted :  Protesting  their  innocence  with  their  last  l^reath. 
The  governor  having  however  at  length  discovered  what 
he  ought  to  have  foreseen,  "  that  the  devil  had  taken 
upon  him  the  shape  of  persons  to  his  certain  knowledge 
of  good  reputation,"  because  Lady  Phips  was  struck  at, 
put  an  end  to  prosecutions  that  had  already  raised  a 
prodigious  ferment,  till  he  should  receive  the  royal 
directions.  Foreseeing  that  an  unextinguishable  flame 
might  be  kindled  he  prudently  prohibited  the  printing 


Chalmers's  political  annals  111 

of  discourses  on  this  perplexing  subject.  William  was 
no  sooner  informed  of  the  miseries  of  Massachusetts 
than  he  gave  orders,  "  that  in  future  trials  for  witch- 
craft the  greatest  moderation  and  care  be  used,  as  far  as 
the  same  may  be  no  impediment  to  the  ordinary  course  of 
justice: "  Approving  at  the  same  time  of  the  endeavours 
of  the  governor  for  putting  an  end  to  the  afflictions  of 
his  people. ^^  Yet  it  was  not  till  from  the  numbers  and 
quality  of  the  accused  that  the  feelings  of  many  were 
touched,  that  the  thick  cloud  began  to  pass  away.  And 
what  is  extremely  remarkable,  the  minds  of  the  juries 
became  enlightened  before  the  spirit  of  the  judges  was 
illumined.  What  reflects  disgi^ace  on  the  province,  it 
was  then  doubtful,  but  is  now  certain,  that  there  existed 
no  law  in  Massachusetts,  for  putting  supposed  witches 
to  death.  And  that  monarch  with  a  liberality  which 
does  him  credit  refused  his  assent  at  a  subsequent  day 
to  an  act  passed  to  supply  that  defect.  The  Assembly 
however  did  justice  to  the  colony  and  to  individuals 
when  at  the  distance  of  twenty  years  it  granted  to  the 
defendants  of  the  innocent  sufferers  a  compensation  for 
the  loss  of  their  estates ;  since  they  could  not  restore  the 
lives  which  the  present  frenzy  had  taken  away.^°  The 
enlightened  few  remarked :  That  Avhen  we  reflect  on  the 
unerring  assertions  of  holy  writ,  we  must  believe  that 
witches  once  were ;  when  we  consider  the  numberless 
delusions  and  impostors  that  have  imposed  on  the  wisest 
nations  we  ought  to  disbelieve  that  witches  any  more 
exist. 

In  the  meantime  the  Indian  war,  so  perplexing  and 
destructive  continued.  York,  which  of  all  the  Towns 
of  the  province  of  Main  had  alone  escaped  former  de- 
vastations was  sacked  in  the  beginning  of  the  year  1692. 
But  a  considerable  party  sent  to  its  relief  compelled  the 
enemy  to  retire  "with  loss  and  disgrace.  In  order  to 
avenge  this  insult  the  governor  himself  marched  to  the 
frontiers  with  a  greater  force,  when  the  French  and 
Indians  disappeared,  since  they  could  not  meet  him  in 
battle.     In  pursuance  of  his  orders  he  now  rebuilt  the 


112  THE  CONTINUATION    OF 

fort  of  Pemaquid,  the  ancient  English  boundary,  on 
that  extremity  of  New  England,  at  a  considerable 
expence :  And  here  he  placed  a  garrison,  Avhich  was 
maintained  at  the  charge  of  the  province,  though  con- 
trary to  its  inclinations,  because  it  was  deemed  unim- 
portant. He  at  the  same  time  sent  out  parties  to  attack 
the  Indians  in  their  fastnesses,  who  destroyed  without 
resistance  the  little  that  Indians  possess.  This  decisive 
conduct  soon  induced  the  Tribes  to  think  of  peace, 
because  they  began  to  distrust  the  promises  of  France, 
and  were  tired  of  a  war  which  had  already  proved  fiital 
to  so  many  of  their  chiefs.  And  it  was  on  this  occasion 
that  he  obliged  the  Acadians  whose  consciences  have  so 
often  been  the  sport  of  fortune,  to  renew  their  oaths  of 
allegiance  to  the  English  Crown.*^ 

From  these  scenes  of  warfare  Phips  hastened  to 
meet  the  Assembly  in  November  1692.  Among  other 
objects  of  importance  he  recommended  "to  settle  sucli  a 
good  body  of  laws  that  no  person  coming  after  him 
might  make  them  uneasy."  At  a  former  meeting  for 
the  nomination  of  officers,  in  which  the  governor  weakly 
allowed  others  to  exercise  his  power,  the  ancient  laws 
had  been  continued  in  force  to  the  present  time,  because 
it  was  supposed  that  the  publication  of  the  new  Charter 
had  destroyed  their  efficacy.  But  to  frame  a  system  of 
rules  for  a  people  is  a  task  of  all  others  the  most  dif- 
ficult. And  no  complete  code  was  enacted.  Various 
laws  however  were  then  established,  which  at  an  after 
day  engaged  much  the  attention  of  the  wisest  ministers 
of  Engiand,  either  to  approve  as  salutary,  or  to  disallow 
as  improper.  An  act  declaring  the  general  privileges  of 
the  province,  and  copied  chiefly  from  the  great  Charter 
of  England,  is  extremely  remarkable,  because  it  was  an 
attempt  to  form  a  bill  of  rights.  But  it  was  dissented 
to  by  those  who  ruled  in  the  absence  of  William  for  a 
singular  reason :  "  Having  exempted  lands  from  escheat 
or  forfeiture,  which  with  other  privileges  having  never 
been  granted  by  his  Majesty,  it  was  not  fit  in  his 
absence  to  allow."     The  act  establishing  a  naval  office 


CHALMERSES    POLITICAL    ANNALS.  113 

was  repealed:  The  Privy  Council  assigning  this  re- 
markable cause;  that  the  jDowers  therein  given  are 
reserved  by  divers  acts  of  Parliament  to  such  officers  as 
shall  be  appointed  by  the  Commissioners  of  the  Customs : 
And  Phips  was  at  the  same  time  warned  that  such  an 
officer  had  been  appointed  by  them  and  he  was  ordered 
to  assist  him  in  the  execution  of  his  duty.  The  system 
of  Criminal  law  was  also  repealed,  because  it  had  been 
copied  too  much  from  the  law  of  Moses  and  too  little 
from  that  of  England.  The  act  for  securing  the  liberty 
of  the  subject  Avas  dissented  to  for  this  memorable 
reason ;  that  the  benefit  of  a  writ  of  habeas  corpus  was 
a  privilege  which  had  not  yet  been  granted  to  any  of  the 
Colonies.  It  is  difficult  to  decide  whether  the  Assembly 
or  the  Privy-Council  were  most  to  blame  in  this  trans- 
action :  The  former,  by  bringing  into  question  the  right 
of  the  subject  to  personal  liberty,  the  most  valuable  of 
all  privileges,  by  making  an  act  where  none  was  neces- 
sary :  The  latter,  composed  of  the  most  renowned  states- 
men and  lawyers,  among  them  sat  Sir  John  Holt,  in 
supposing  that  an  English  Subject  is  entitled  to  freedom 
from  a  grant  of  a  King  of  England.  Many  laws  of 
local  economy  were  either  approved  of  or  dissented  to 
for  various  reasons.  Two  of  these  not  only  mark  the 
spirit  of  the  people  but  were  probably  the  cause  of  effects 
as  lasting  as  they  were  beneficial :  That  for  the  distribu- 
tion of  intestates  estates  gave  the  same  equal  payment 
to  every  creditor,  and  the  same  portion  to  all  the  chil- 
dren except  the  Eldest  whose  share  was  double :  That 
subjecting  the  lands  of  the  deceased  to  the  payment  of 
every  debt,  while  the  equity  of  its  provisions  did  honour 
to  the  province,  shewed  a  very  dissimilar  temper  from 
that  of  the  Colonies  of  the  South :  ■*'-  And  to  these  salu- 
tary regulations  much  of  the  populousness  and  commerce 
must  be  attributed.  From  p>romoting  internal  happiness 
by  the  wisdom  of  its  laws  the  Assembly  turned  its  atten- 
tion to  external  defence :  And  it  granted  thirty  thou- 
sand pounds  to  put  the  frontiers  in  a  state  of  security. 
While  Phips  transmitted  all  these  laws  to  the  ministers 

8 


114  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

of  William  he  informed  them,  that  though  a  gratuity 
of  £500  was  conferred  on  him  "Yet  no  salary  is 
settled  or  intended."  He  transmitted  a  petition  to  that 
monarch  ;  *^  begging  for  the  royal  recommendation  which 
he  suggested  would  easily  procure  that  establishment 
which  was  so  essential  to  his  dignity  and  even  to  his 
existence.  But  though  Sir  William  had  been  formally 
admitted  into  their  Church  little  did  he  know  the  true 
temper  of  the  people  over  whom  he  presided,  or  the 
deep  policy,  that  was  even  then  adopted,  and  that  no 
future  King  or  governor  has  been  able  to  change.  The 
miserable  dependence  in  which  that  gentleman  was  kept, 
by  obliging  him  to  depart  not  only  from  rigid  duty  but 
even  from  common  prudence  was  undoubtedly  the  true 
cause  of  his  subsequent  ruin. 

The  conquest  of  Canada  had  been  so  often  urged  by 
Phips  and  so  much  pressed  by  the  Agents  as  absolutely 
necessary  for  the  safety  of  the  Northern  Colonies  that 
William  resolved  at  length  to  send  a  powerful  force, 
which  promised  equally  to  promote  the  glory  of  his 
reign  and  the  security  of  his  Colonial  Subjects.  He 
had  early  despatched  a  small  fleet  and  army  to  the  West 
Indies  for  their  protection.  In  November  1692,  he 
transmitted  orders  to  Admiral  Wheeler  to  leave  that 
station  and  to  repair  to  Boston  with  the  troops  under 
Colonel  Foulke ;  so  as  to  arrive  at  farthest  by  the 
middle  of  the  subsequent  June.  And  that  naval  com- 
mander punctually  obeyed.  On  the  2 2d  of  February 
1693,  letters  were  transmitted  to  the  governors  of  New 
York  and  Massachusetts ;  informing  them  of  the  royal 
intentions,  of  the  approach  of  the  fleet  and  army ;  and 
requiring  them  to  represent  this  measure  to  their  as- 
semblies, that  they  might  cooperate  in  an  enterprize 
which  had  the  advantage  of  all  for  its  end.  Lest  any 
accident  should  happen  to  these  despatches.  Cox,  who 
was  described  as  a  person  of  experienced  prudence  was 
detached  by  a  different  vessel,  in  order  to  explain  more 
fully  the  intended  measures.  But  he  seems  never  to 
have  reached  America;  the  letters  were  not  received 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  115 

till  July :  And  Wheeler  brought  himself  the  first  intel- 
ligence of  the  projected  expedition.  A  contagious  dis- 
temper, so  incident  to  the  West  India  Climate  had 
unhappily  reduced  the  soldiers  to  six  hundred  and.  fifty, 
and  the  usual  complement  of  sailors  to  one  half.  But 
change  of  climate  had  the  most  salutary  influence  on  the 
health  of  every  one ;  the  ships  were  in  perfect  order ; 
and  ammunition  and  provisions  abounded.  All  these 
favourable  circumstances  the  Admiral  immediately 
communicated  to  Phips  and  requested  his  opinion  if  his 
remaining  force  was  alone  able  to  attack  Queljeck. 
Having  acquired  knowledge  from  his  unfortunate  ex- 
pedition of  1690  he  answered:  That  the  fleet  should 
have  sailed  the  first  of  July  at  farthest ;  that  four  thou- 
sand land  forces  were  absolutely  necessary ;  that  it  was 
not  probable  therefore  that  his  armament  could  make 
any  impression  on  a  city,  the  fortifications  of  wliich  had 
been  considerably  strengthened :  But  that  the  destruction 
of  the  enemies'  vessels  at  Newfoundland  would  be  a 
considerable  service.  The  governor  and  Council  at  the 
same  time  gave  him  the  detail  of  a  new  expedition 
against  Canada  for  the  information  of  his  warlike  King  ; 
requesting  two  thousand  troops  and  an  immense  quan- 
tity of  arms  and  ammunition  for  the  use  of  the  militia, 
to  be  sent  from  England  in  the  subsequent  year.  Yet 
the  ardour  of  Wheeler  seems  not  to  have  been  quenched 
by  the  coolness  of  his  reception  at  Boston.  Having 
received  authentic  intelligence  of  the  weakness  of  Pla- 
centia  in  Newfoundland  he  determined  to  attack  that 
settlement,  and  asked  a  reinforcement  of  four  hundred 
men.  But  while  Phips  professed  his  readiness  to  do 
anything  in  his  power  to  promote  his  design  lie  declined 
to  grant  his  request:  Assigning  as  reasons,  "that  the 
militia  could  not  be  sent  out  of  ^he  province  without  the 
consent  of  the  Assembly;  that  an  expedition  whicli  was 
intended  for  the  security  of  the  eastern  frontiers  would 
require  a  considerable  number ;  that  the  contagious 
distemper  had  discouraged  the  people  from  entering  on 
board  the  fleet.     Wheeler  departed  :  Remarking  in  the 


116  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

moment  of  chagrin,  that  the  real  want  of  early  notice 
furnished  an  insincere  people  with  a  fine  excuse  for 
declining  what  they  had  no  real  intention  to  perform. 
Thus  miscarried  an  expedition,  which  cost  England  a 
prodigious  expence;  partly  owing  to  misfortune  and 
accident,  arising  from  climate  and  distance,  but  more 
to  the  want  of  zeal  in  Massachusetts  which  she  had 
formerly  exerted  when  acting  alone.  William  listened 
with  more  than  usual  caution  to  the  future  professions 
of  men,  whom  he  had  found  as  liberal  in  promises  as 
parsimonious  in  execution.** 

Nevertheless  that  province  since  the  commencement 
of  the  war  had  never  enjoyed  a  situation  in  which  it 
might  with  so  much  safety  have  engaged  in  foreign 
enterprizes.  The  Indians,  overawed  by  the  fort  at 
Pemaquid,  reduced  to  distress  by  the  destruction  of 
their  scanty  crops,  and  in  some  measure  deserted  by 
France,  made  little  impression  on  the  borders  during 
the  winter  or  beginning  of  the  year  1693.  Yet  Convers 
a  renowned  captain  of  those  dajs,  led  against  them  an 
army  of  five  hundred  men :  He  surprised  a  party  which 
had  invested  Wells.  And  he  not  long  after  compelled 
them  to  sue  for  peace,  by  building  a  fort  at  Saco,  which 
commanded  their  hunting  grounds.  A  treaty  was  ac- 
cordingly signed  at  Pemaquid  in  August  1693.  The 
tribes  of  Kenebeck,  of  Saco,  of  Penopscot,  acknowledged 
themselves  subjects  of  the  Crown  of  England;  they 
promised  future  amity;  they  agreed  to  abandon  the 
French,  to  deliver  up  the  caj^tives,  to  permit  the 
colonists  to  return  to  their  former  settlements :  And  they 
delivered  hostages  to  Phips  for  their  iaithful  perform- 
ance. Yet  the  Indian  negotiations  over-reached  tliose  of 
Massachusetts.  For  the  tribes,  considering  no  promise 
either  verbal  or  written  as  binding,  which  is  not  accom- 
panied with  the  delivery  of  belts  of  Wampum,  did  not 
long  regard  stipulations  that  they  regarded  as  void  or 
informal.*^ 

The  elevation  of  Phips  seems  to  have  engendered 
that  insolence,  which  unmerited  good  fortune  generally 


CHALMERS  S    POLITICAL    ANNALS.  117 

begets  on  vulgar  minds.  Without  regarding  the  de- 
corum of  his  station  or  the  instructions  of  his  sovereign, 
he  engaged  in  disputes  with  other  royal  officers,  that 
ended  in  his  disgrace  and  death.  Upon  the  reestab- 
lishment  of  the  government  Brenton  had  been  appointed 
Collector  of  the  Customs  at  Boston  under  the  authority 
of  acts  of  Parliament  in  the  room  of  Randolph,  who 
first  discharged  that  obnoxious  trust.  An  office  so 
adverse  to  the  designs  and  principles  of  every  one,  had 
been  always  viewed  with  jealousy,  was  now  regarded 
by  the  assembly  as  illegal,  because  that  body  either 
overlooked  the  statutes  of  England  or  considered  them 
as  void :  And  naval  offices  were  erected  in  that  colony  by 
the  act,  which  we  have  seen  disallowed  by  William, 
because  it  was  deemed  contrary  to  law  and  destructive 
of  the  power  of  the  Collector.  Actuated  by  the  princi- 
ples of  his  colony,  and  willing  to  acquire  popularity, 
though  at  the  expence  of  duty,  he  zealously  supported 
the  naval  officers  appointed  by  liimself  in  opposition  to 
him  who  had  derived  his  authority  from  the  Commis- 
sioners of  the  Customs  in  England.  Brenton  having 
seized  a  vessel  because  navigated  contrary  to  the  acts 
of  trade  was  ordered  "  to  forbear  meddling  witli  the 
goods : "  But  he  refused  to  obey  commands  which  ap- 
peared to  him  illegal.  Influenced  by  his  partiality  to 
a  friend,  and  irritated  by  opposition,  Pliips  repaired 
to  the  King  s  warehouse,  where  the  merchandize  was 
lodged,  assaulted  the  Collector,  and  forcibly  carried  off 
the  vessel  and  cargo.  While  the  Commissioners  of  the 
Customs  formally  presented  this  extraordinary  transac- 
tion to  that  monarch  they  prayed  for  the  protection  of 
their  officer,  which  involved  the  royal  revenue ;  for  the 
support  of  the  laws  and  with  them  the  authority  of  the 
state.  Yet  powerful  as  this  application  was  it  probably 
made  not  so  deep  an  impression  as  an  occurrence  of  a 
very  different  kind.  When  subsequent  to  the  Bevolu- 
tion  frigates  were  sent  to  the  colonies  to  protect  their 
trade  they  were  placed  under  the  direction  of  the 
governors,  who  were  invested  by  their  instructions  with 


118  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

the  power  of  superintendence  and  suspension.  The 
Nonsuch  commanded  by  Short,  transported  Phips  to 
Boston ;  and  a  circumstance  which  ought  to  have  pro- 
duced mutual  good  will  only  begat  future  enmity.  This 
officer  appears  to  have  performed  the  general  orders  of 
the  governor,  though  perhaps  with  the  indifference  with 
which  the  commands  of  a  hated  superior  are  always 
obeyed.  But  when  he  required  him  to  lend  his  sailors 
to  navigate  the  vessel  of  a  merchant  Short  refused  to 
obey  what  he  deemed  contrary  to  the  rules  of  the  navy ; 
though  perhaps  he  had  granted  to  the  requests  of  the 
man  he  esteemed  what  he  refused  to  the  orders  of  the 
governor  he  hated.  Altercation  ensued.  And  Phips 
with  an  illiberality  unworthy  of  a  gentleman  caned  the 
officer  whom  his  sovereign  had  honoured  with  his  com- 
mission. Not  satisfied  with  suspending  the  captain  and 
permitting  the  lieutenant  to  succeed  agreeably  to  his 
instructions  he  persecuted  Short  with  a  rancour  which  his 
feelings  as  a  man  should  have  forbid.  The  naval  com- 
manders felt  themselves  dishonoured  by  the  insult  offered 
to  this  captain  and  they  filled  the  Court  of  Willi-jm  with 
complaints  against  the  conduct  of  the  governor,  which 
they  insisted  would  ruin  the  navy  of  England  if  permit- 
ted with  impunity.  When  the  suspended  officer  at 
length  arrived  he  applied  to  a  Monarch  who  had  been 
thus  predisposed  to  favour  his  cause,  for  justice,  for  a 
return  of  his  property,  for  reparation  of  his  wrongs. 
The  variety  as  well  as  the  singularity  of  the  complaints 
against  his  oppressor  determined  their  common  sove- 
reign to  recal  the  governor.  And  the  Committee  for 
colonies  were  ordered  in  lanofuao-e  which  evinces  not 
only  the  novelty  of  the  case  but  the  impression  it  had 
made  "to  consider  of  a  way  to  bring  Phips  to  answer 
in  England.""  In  February  1694  he  was  informed  of 
the  charges  against  him;  he  was  directed  to  permit 
depositions  to  be  taken  to  support  them  ;  he  was  ordered 
to  return  immediately  :  And  Stoughton  the  Lieutenant- 
governor  was  commanded  to  assume  the  government, 
and  to  take  and  transmit  such  evidences  as  should  be 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  119 

produced  by  either  party. ^^  Phips  discovered  when  it 
was  too  late  that  the  ruler  of  a  free  people  to  be  happy 
must  be  moderate. 

In  the  meantime  the  governor  endeavoured  to  exe- 
cute that  part  of  his  commission  which  gave  him  the 
command  of  the  military  force  of  Rhode  Island  and 
New  Hampshire.  But  with  a  success  in  both  in  pro- 
portion to  the  doubts  that  were  entertained  in  each  with 
regard  to  the  validity  of  it.  The  former  refused  to  obey 
the  officers  whom  he  appointed,  because  he  despised  his 
person  and  derided  his  authority.  The  latter  would  not 
permit  him  to  publish  his  commission  and  refused  to 
admit  him  into  the  fort,  because  she  feared  his  power. 
And  his  authority  as  vice-admiral  was  equally  opposed 
by  both,  because  similar  inconveniences  were  .dreaded.*' 
While  these  causes  of  weakness  existed  to  so  great  a 
degree  never  were  Union  and  the  force  which  it  always 
carries  with  it  more  necessary.  The  Eastern  Indians  seem 
to  have  agreed  to  the  truce  of  Pemaquid  with  design  only 
to  recover  their  losses,  and  to  renew  hostilities  with  greater 
vigour.  And  the}^  did  not  restore  their  prisoners  accord- 
ing to  their  stipulation.  In  July  1G94  they  began  their 
murderous  attacks  on  New  Hampshire;  either  killing 
or  carrying  into  a  lamentable  captivity  those  whom  the 
weakness  of  age  or  of  sex  had  recommended  to  a  polished 
enemy.  And  they  soon  extended  their  devastations  to 
a  part  of  Massachusetts  within  forty  miles  of  the  capital. 
Not  long  after  Bomazeen  a  famous  warrior  of  those 
days  came  to  Pemaquid  under  the  protection  of  a  white 
flag,  the  signal  of  pacific  conference.  He  informed  the 
commander  that  he  had  heard  with  sorrow  upon  his  late 
return  from  Canada  of  the  mischiefs  his  countrymen 
had  done ;  that  he  came  to  tie  up  the  wounds  which 
they  had  inflicted,  by  a  lasting  pacification.  But  his 
sincerity  was  probably  distrusted.  March  "  resolved  j!t 
any  rate  to  seize  a  sachem  "  whose  enmity  had  so  often 
proved  fatal,  and  though  he  returned  the  signal  of 
treaty,  though  he  "  assured  him  of  kind  treatment,"  he 
arrested  that  renowned  warrior  with  the  companions  of 


120  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

his  embassy,  and  sent  them  prisoners  to  Boston  :  Insist- 
ing that  as  the  tribes  observed  neither  promises  nor 
subscriptions,  nor  the  law  of  nations,  they  deserved  no 
human  respect.  The  governor  disgraced  the  province 
by  adopting  the  unworthy  sentiments  and  conduct  of  an 
officer  who  merited  punishment:  Supposing  "that  the 
prisoners  ought  to  be  treated  as  land  pirates  because  of 
their  jDcrfidy."  The  French  exclaimed  :  That  the  treach- 
ery of  the  American  English  had  degraded  them  to  a 
level  with  the  most  barbarous  hords ;  who  have  at  all 
times  regarded  the  white  flag  as  the  guardian  of  personal 
safety.*^  Sad  experience  convinced  both  parties  that 
perfidy  seldom  fails  to  inflict  those  evils  which  those 
ought  to  suffer  who  attempt  to  gain  by  it. 

When  Phips  received  notice  of  his  recal  he  prepared 
with  great  diligence  to  meet  his  accusers  at  the  Court 
of  England.  He  easily  procured  numerous  depositions, 
because  it  is  easy  to  recriminate,  when  it  is  impossible 
to  justify.  But  it  was  with  great  difficulty  that  he 
obtained  a  recommendatory  address  from  the  Assembly, 
the  members  of  which  had  experienced  the  effects  of  his 
accustomed  violence.  In  October  1694,  that  body  re- 
presented to  William :  That  the  colony  was  reduced  to 
the  most  deplorable  state  from  a  fresh  desolation  of  the 
Indians  and  fi-om  a  war  which  had  cost  the  people 
twenty  thousand  pounds,  besides  the  loss  of  ships  and 
men;  that  while  it  was  obliged  to  defend  New  Hamp- 
shire, which  could  not  otherwise  exist,  it  was  unable  to 
lend  New  York  the  required  assistance :  And  it  begged 
that  Monarch  to  allow  no  complaints  of  a  personal  con- 
cern to  be  so  improved  as  to  deprive  the  province  of  a 
governor  of  whose  integrity  for  his  service  it  was  well 
assured.*®  Phips  arrived  in  England  in  January  1695. 
But  before  his  conduct  was  inquired  into  he  died  in  the 
subsequent  month,  of  a  fever  engendered  by  the  violence 
of  passions  that  continually  preyed  on  a  mind  rude  and 
uninformed.^'*  Few  regretted  the  governor  because  few 
loved  the  man.  And  many  rejoiced  at  his  fall;  because 
few  thought  he  merited  elevation,  because  he  had  of- 


CHALMERS  S    POLITICAL    ANNALS.  121 

fended  numbers  as  he  was  prompted  by  his  vehemence 
to  quarrel  with  every  one  with  whom  he  disagreed. 

Various  pretenders  instantly  contended  for  an  office 
of  little  profit  or  power,  because  men  are  fond  of  pre- 
eminence though  even  attended  with  vexation.  Lord 
Bellomout,  the  most  conspicuous  of  any,  since  he  had 
lately  impeached  the  chief  rulers  of  Ireland,  was  named 
the  successor  of  Phips  in  June  1695,  though  difficulties 
with  regard  to  his  salary  seem  to  have  prevented  his 
voyage  thither  for  several  years.  In  the  meantime  the 
administration  was  conducted  with  great  prudence  and 
ability  by  Stoughton,  the  Lieutenant  governor,  of  whom 
it  was  said  even  by  his  opponents,  "  that  he  was  more 
of  a  scholar  than  a  soldier."  He  had  the  good  fortune 
to  preserve  great  internal  quiet,  because  expecting  to 
be  daily  superseded,  he  attempted  nothing  that  could 
offend  individuals  or  rouse  parties  of  his  country.  The 
borders  of  New  England  were  little  infested  by  the 
depredations  of  the  Indians  during  the  year  1695.  One 
of  those  contagious  diseases,  which  has  often  proved 
fatal  to  the  Tribes  raged  among  them,  which  disposed 
them  to  peace  at  a  time  that  several  of  their  bravest 
warriors  were  prisoners  at  Boston.  They  professed 
their  sorrow  for  the  continuance  of  the  war:  They 
avowed  their  inclination  for  peace :  And  while  they  pro- 
posed an  exchange  of  prisoners,  they  actually  delivered 
several  captives  as  a  mark  of  their  sincerity.  In  order 
to  reestablish  what  every  one  desired  so  much.  Depu- 
ties were  named  by  the  General  Court  to  adjust  the 
terms  of  future  amity ;  and  a  truce  was  agreed  on.  The 
negotiators  had  no  sooner  assembled  at  Pemaquid  than 
the  envoys  of  Massachusetts  refused  to  treat  unless  the 
Tribes  should  in  the  first  pkice  deliver  up  their  prisoners. 
But  the  Indians  had  not  forgot  the  treacherous  manner 
in  which  their  principal  Avarriors  had  been  seized  the 
year  before ;  they  perceived  that  it  would  be  impossible 
to  procure  the  freedom  of  their  Chiefs,  when  they  had 
relinquished  the  only  security  in  their  power :  And  with 
a  spirit  worthy  of  the  wisest  and  bravest  of  nations  they 


122  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

broke  off  the  treaty  ;  retiring  abruptly  into  their  woods, 
in  order  to  renew  hostilities.  It  was  in  vain  to  give 
warning  to  the  inhabitants  of  a  wide  extended  frontier 
of  an  event,  which  policy  as  well  as  humanity  should 
have  prevented.  The  tribes  instantly  renewed  the  war 
with  their  usual  promptitude,  which  they  continued 
with  their  wonted  barbarity/^  And  the  miserable  peo- 
ple had  sufficient  cause  during  the  remainder  of  the 
year  1695,  to  lament  the  unfortunate  politics  of  their 
rulers. 

Still  fearful  however  for  the  fate  of  their  friends  at 
Boston,  the  Tribes  sent  a  deputation  of  Sachems  to 
Pemaquid  in  the  begmning  of  the  subsequent  year,  in 
order  to  propose  once  more  an  exchange  of  prisoners. 
But  Chubb,  the  commander,  regardless  of  the  common 
principles  of  union  among  men  attacked  those  who 
deemed  themselves  protected  by  the  mutual  confidence 
of  treaty,  and  while  he  put  several  to  death,  he  seized 
those  who  escaped  the  sword  during  the  moment  of  his 
barbarous  zeal.  At  the  same  time  that  enthusiasts, 
who  did  not  consider  the  Indians  as  entitled  to  the 
common  rights  of  nature,  praised  this  memorable  act  of 
treachery  as  worthy  of  a  patriot  and  soldier,  the  wisest 
and  best  men  of  Massachusetts  in  some  measure  rescued 
their  country  from  indelible  disgrace,  by  speaking  of  it 
with  horror  as  meriting  punishment. ^^  Irritated  by 
these  repeated  provocations  the  Tribes  spread  their  deso- 
lations along  the  confines  of  New  England  and  made 
an  unprotected  people  suffer  for  a  crime,  which  all 
ought  to  have  joined  in  punishing,  since  the  common 
safety  no  less  than  justice  required  it.^^  The  wisdom 
of  the  French  has  at  all  times  derived  every  advantage 
from  the  misconduct  of  the  English  provincials:  And 
they  were  now  enabled  by  the  baseness  of  Chubb  to 
execute  a  project  which  they  had  for  some  time  medita- 
ted. Having  sailed  from  Port  Royal  in  Acadie  with  a 
small  squadron  the  experienced  DTberville  not  only 
dispersed  a  few  English  vessels  sent  to  oppose  him  but 
easily  joined  St.  Castine  who  had  collected  two  hundred 


Chalmers's  political  annals,  123 

Indians  at  Penobscot.  And  in  July  1696,  they  invested 
Pemaquid.  This  ancient  fortification,  which  had  been 
built  by  Massachusetts  at  a  considerable  expence,  rather 
with  a  view  to  preserve  possession  of  the  country  than 
to  defend  the  Eastern  frontier  was  now  mouldering  into 
dust,  because  the  General  Court  neglected  to  repair 
what  it  did  not  approve,  and  ninety  men  were  left  to 
defend  a  distant  post  which  could  not  easily  be  support- 
ed. These  were  instantly  summoned  to  surrender,  since 
resistance  was  deemed  vain  and  dangerous :  The  French 
Commander  offering  with  the  generosity  of  his  nation 
to  send  them  to  Boston  in  exchange  for  the  same  num- 
ber of  French  and  Indian  prisoners.  Perfectly  informed 
of  the  superior  force  of  his  opponent  Chubb  immediately 
agreed  to  deliver  up  the  Fort  on  the  offered  terms: 
Insisting  moreover  for  personal  protection  from  the  rage 
of  those  whom  his  recent  treachery  had  justly  provoked. 
Such  was  the  fury  of  a  people,  who  give  full  scope  to 
their  revenge,  that  nothing  but  the  prudence  of  D'  Iber- 
ville, in  sending  the  garrison  to  an  island  under  a  strong 
guard,  saved  Chubb  and  the  instruments  of  his  perfidy 
from  a  dreadful  retaliation.  The  French  demolished 
the  fortification,  and  they  prepared  to  lay  waste  the 
coast  as  far  westward  as  Portsmouth.  But  learning 
that  the  English  fleet,  reinforced  by  frigates  from  Eng- 
land and  by  provincial  vessels,  had  sailed  to  revenge 
the  late  disgrace,  that  troops  had  been  detached  to  de- 
fend the  country,  they  retired  to  Penobscot.  It  was  in 
vain  for  the  English  commanders  to  pursue  the  enemy 
in  their  retreat,  because  they  were  protected  by  fogs 
and  by  shoals.  And  they  returned  to  Boston  :  Morti- 
fied that  they  could  not  wipe  away  recent  dishonour  by 
a  vigorous  impression.^* 

At  the  same  time  that  Stoughton  was  extremely 
disappointed  at  this  event  it  did  not  abate  his  ardour, 
because  he  really  loved  his  country  and  felt  for  its 
miseries.  He  perceived  however  that  it  would  be  im- 
possible to  protect  the  inhabitants  living  dispersedly 
over  a  wilderness  of  great  extent  while  the  Acadians 


124  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

gave  aid  to  the  Indians,  and  what  was  of  more  import- 
ance their  instructions :  And  he  determined  to  chastise 
the  people  whom  he  considered  as  rebels,  because  it  had 
been  found  more  difficult  to  retain  them  in  subjection 
than  to  conquer.  The  ideal  authority  of  Massachusetts 
over  that  people,  which  had  been  acquired  by  irruption 
of  Phips  in  1690,  had  been  of  short  continuance,  be- 
cause neither  garrisons  were  left  to  compel  their  obedi- 
ence, nor  lenient  measures  were  used  to  conciliate  their 
good  will.  Villebon,  who  was  sent  thither  in  November 
1691  by  the  French  King,  easily  regained  j^ossession  of 
a  country  which  was  already  in  arms  to  receive  him. 
And  every  attempt  to  reclaim  a  people  who  Avere 
enthusiastically  attached  to  their  ancient  usages  and 
religion  who  revered  their  sovereign  had  hitherto  proved 
fruitless.  In  pursuance  of  the  orders  of  Stoughton 
Colonel  Church  with  a  small  armament  during  the 
summer  of  1696,  ranged  along  the  Eastern  Coast  as  far 
as  St.  Croix  without  seeing  an  enemy  till  he  arrived  at 
Acadia.  On  his  approach  the  wretched  inhabitants 
retired  into  their  friendly  woods:  Refusing  his  terms 
of  submission,  because  they  distrusted  the  men  whose 
perfidy  they  had  formerly  felt.  And  their  houses  were 
burnt,  their  cattle  were  destroyed,  their  property  was 
plundered  by  the  army.  The  fate  of  the  Acadians  has 
been  at  all  times  pitied  by  the  humane,  who  saw  them 
struggling  with  miseries,  because  they  were  attached  to 
a  sovereign,  who  either  did  not  sufficiently  commiserate 
their  sufterings  or  was  unable  to  give  them  effectual 
relief  Church  soon  departed  for  Boston  without  making 
any  attempt  on  the  country  around  Saint  Johns,  where 
the  Governor  resided,  because  he  thought  his  force 
unequal  to  the  object.  But  Stoughton,  hearing  of  his 
intention,  and  anxious  to  remove  Villebon  from  a  post 
which  enabled  him  to  annoy  New  England,  sent  a  con- 
siderable reinforcement  with  orders  to  attempt  by  an 
animated  exertion  to  accomplish  what  would  promote 
the  glory  and  advantage  of  his  country.  That  vigilant 
officer  was  soon  informed  of  the  return  of  Church  with 


CHALMEKS'S    POLITICAL    ANNALS.  125 

the  real  cause  of  his  sudden  change  of  measures  and  he 
prepared  to  shew  his  antagonist  an  example  of  vigour 
and  perseverance.  A  feeble  attack  was  nevertheless 
made  on  St.  Johns  but  easily  repelled.  And  the 
inclemency  of  the  weather,  the  want  of  tents,  the  dis- 
agreement of  the  Commanders,  induced  the  assailants 
soon  after  to  embark  and  to  direct  their  course  once 
more  for  Boston.  While  the  forces  had  been  thus  with- 
drawn from  the  frontiers  to  prosecute  fruitless  expedi- 
tions at  a  distance,  the  inhabitants  seeing  no  safety  any- 
where but  under  the  cannon  of  the  forts  were  neither 
able  to  pursue  their  usual  aiFairs  nor  to  prosecute  a  war 
with  effect,  which  has  been  ever  attended  with  great 
personal  fatigue  and  danger  though  with  little  profit 
or  glory.  A  scarcity  amounting  almost  to  famine  en- 
sued. The  people  emigrated  to  the  more  happy  colo- 
nies of  the  South,  since  they  were  loaded  with  taxes 
and  were  yet  unprotected.^^  When  the  enemy  heard 
of  the  universal  complaints  of  their  foes,  they  rejoiced 
in  proportion  to  their  late  success  and  their  future  ex- 
pectation. 

Information  of  all  these  disastrous  events  was  com- 
municated to  the  ministers  of  England  towards  the  end 
of  the  year  1696.  The  Assembly  of  Massachusetts  at 
the  same  time  represented  to  William :  That  the  prov- 
ince had  long  languished  under  a  war  with  the  French 
and  Indians,  by  which  the  estates  of  his  poor  subjects 
were  much  exhausted  and  their  persons  either  led  into 
captivity  or  slain ;  that  while  by  the  decay  of  their  trade 
their  abilities  were  diminished  the  neighbouring  colo- 
nies of  Connecticut,  Rhode  Island  and  New  Hampshire, 
contributed  nothing  to  the  support  of  a  contest  in  which 
all  were  equally  interested :  It  prayed  that  these  planta- 
tions might  be  obliged  to  give  a  reasonable  assistance ; 
that  a  suitable  supply  of  arms  and  warlike  stores,  and 
an  additional  number  of  ships  of  war  might  be  speedily 
sent  for  its  defence ;  that  Port  Koyal  and  Saint  Johns 
in  Acadie  miprht  be  retaken  and  "-arrisoned  with  soldiers 
at  the  expence  of  the  royal  exchequer :  And  it  recom- 


126  THE    CONTINUATION   OP 

mended  to  the  consideration  of  that  Monarch  the  con- 
quest of  Canada,  the  chief  seat  of  the  French  power, 
and  the  unhappy  fountain  whence  issued  the  waters  of 
New  England's  miseries  ^^  Having  considered  the 
dangerous  state  of  Massachusetts  the  Lords  Commis- 
sioners of  plantations  recommended  the  appointment 
of  a  governor  skilled  in  military  affairs.  The  proprietors 
and  traders  of  that  province,  deeply  affected  with  the 
lamentable  progress  of  the  French,  petitioned  "  for  the 
establishment  of  some  good  form  of  government  for 
uniting  under  one  head  the  many  interests,  occasioned 
by  the  various  separate  jurisdictions."  Every  one  per- 
ceived the  necessity  of  coalition  for  the  general  defence 
against  an  enemy,  politic  and  well  directed :  But  no  one 
could  point  out  how  that  desirable  object  could  be  ac- 
complished consistent  with  such  discordant  pretensions. 
New  York,  Connecticut,  and  New  Hampshire,  jealous 
of  their  independence,  vigorously  opposed  that  incor- 
porate Union,  which  was  equally  pressed  for  by  Massa- 
chusetts. The  Lords  Commissioners  of  Colonies  repre- 
sented to  that  prince  the  several  proposals  on  this 
imjDortant  subject  with  the  objections ;  and  they  recom- 
mended one  governor  for  New  York,  Massachusetts  and 
New  Hampshire  who  should  be  also  commander  of  the 
forces  of  Connecticut  and  Rhode  Island  durino;  the  war: 
Giving  as  a  reason  what  shews  they  knew  little  of  the 
temper  of  the  governor ;  "  tha,t  the  various  assemblies 
by  the  prudent  conduct  of  such  a  governor,  may  be 
prevailed  on  to  make  such  laws  as  will  enable  him  to 
execute  the  royal  Commission."  But  when  the  Board 
reflected,  that  Massachusetts  of  all  the  provinces  was 
the  mosl  considerable  for  numbers  and  wealth  yet 
contributed  little  to  the  public  revenue,  that  its  desire 
of  pecuniary  aid  from  England  was  unprecedented ;  the 
Commissioners  deemed  it  unseasonable  to  build  fortifica- 
tions or  to  form  settlements  in  Acadie ;  and  prudently 
advised  that  the  several  Colonies  should  be  rather  pressed 
to  exert  their  utmost  endeavours  for  their  own  defence. 
Yet  an  additional  frigate  for  the  protection  of  its  trade 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  127 

and  a  considerable  supply  of  warlike  stores  were  sent  to 
Massachusetts  with  the  succeeding  governor,  "as  a  mark 
of  the  royal  bounty."  "  Though  Lord  Bellomont  was 
appointed  governor  of  this  province  in  June  1695,  yet 
he  seems  to  have  been  little  desirous  to  solicit  a  com- 
mission to  which  no  fixed  salary  was  annexed.  But  in 
March  1697,  he  accepted  of  the  command  of  those 
several  Colonies  in  pursuance  of  the  representation  before 
mentioned,  because  the  Agents  of  Massachusetts  promised 
him  what  they  had  not  power  to  perform,  an  established 
appointment,  and  much  he  relied  on  his  own  address. 
He  was  pressed  by  his  sovereign  to  hasten  his  departure 
as  he  still  lingered  in  England,  soliciting  further  favours.^^ 
Men  of  discernment  remarked  how  much  more  States- 
men are  at  all  times  governed  by  present  impressions 
than  by  the  experience  of  the  past  or  by  prescience  of 
events  to  come.  The  policy  just  mentioned  had  been 
already  attem]3ted  during  this  reign,  without  success. 
And  we  shall  find,  that  as  the  same  causes  still  existed, 
thoug:h  the  man  was  changed,  the  ofovernors  exertions 
will  prove  equally  unsuccessful. 

Notwithstanding  the  repeated  solicitations  of  Massa- 
chusetts from  the  revolution  to  the  present  time  for  the 
annexation  of  New  Hampshire,  a  regard  to  the  interest 
and  opposition  of  Allen,  who  Avas  now  the  Proprietor, 
since  he  had  purchased  the  right  of  Mason,  continued  it 
a  separate  government.  And  John  Usher  an  illiterate 
man,  of  little  prudence,  was  appointed  by  him  Deputy 
Governor.  But  as  the  religious  and  political  tenets  of 
the  inhabitants  of  this  inconsiderable  district  remained 
unchanged,  former  disorders  continued.  Little  obedience 
or  even  respect  was  paid  to  the  Deputy  of  a  Proprietary, 
who  claimed  to  be  universal  Lord  of  the  soil,  and  A\ho 
was  therefore  hated  by  the  people.  The  Assembly 
constantly  refused  to  grant  mone}',  either  for  the  support 
of  such  a  government,  or  for  the  defence  of  a  country 
which  was  claimed  by  a  stranger.  Three  men,  Hinks, 
Vaughan,  and  Waldron  really  governed  the  colony,  as 
they  enjoyed  the  perfect  confidence  of  the  governed. 


128  THE  CONTINUATION    OF 

They  at  length  seized  the  government  towards  the  end 
of  the  year  1696,  on  this  plausible  pretence;  that  the 
present  authority  was  expired  since  Partridge  was  ap- 
pointed Deputy  governor,  though  he  had  not  yet  taken 
the  oaths  and  given  the  security  which  the  law  demanded 
as  an  essential  qualification.  Usher,  fearing  for  his 
life,  fled  to  Boston.  And  he  thence  gave  notice  of  this 
unimportant  revolution  to  the  ministers  of  England: 
Assurino-  them  as  the  true  cause  of  an  event  so  deo-rad- 
ing  to  regular  government;  "that  it  was  not  his  person 
they  hated  but  the  prerogative  of  the  king."  The  Lords 
Commissioners  of  plantations  in  some  measure  adopted 
his  sentiment  when  they  resolved ;  "  that  the  legal  ad- 
ministration was  still  invested  in  him,  notwithstanding 
the  Commission  of  Partridge ;  that  the  royal  authority 
ought  not  to  be  trampled  on  in  his  person."  They 
ordered  him  to  return  to  his  charge  and  to  require  every 
one  to  obey  his  legal  powers.  They  requested  Stoughton 
to  support  him  with  his  credit  and  persuasions.  And 
Lord  Bellomont  was  commanded  to  inquire  into  the 
cause  of  these  distractions;  in  order  "that  a  course 
might  be  taken  to  remedy  the  present  and  to  prevent 
future  disorders."  Usher  obeyed ;  because  he  deemed 
passive  obedience  one  of  the  greatest  of  virtues.  But  tlie 
conduct  of  the  Board  was  contemned  and  the  commands 
of  the  governor  were  despised,  as  there  existed  no  real 
power  to  give  energy  to  either.  ^^  Sagacious  men  per- 
ceived the  futility  of  these  measures  and  regretted  the 
weakness  which  gave  them  birth,  because  they  foresaw 
the  consequences. 

When  Fletcher  arrived  at  New  York  in  August 
1692,  he  found  those  committed  to  his  charge  "a  divided, 
contentious  and  impoverished  people."  Two  implacable 
parties  which  had  derived  their  existence  from  the 
Revolution,  continued  to  rend  in  twain  that  miserable 
province.  Though  pardon  of  all  past  transgressions 
was  published,  yet  those  who  had  unjustly  suffered 
from  the  violence  of  Leisler  ceased  not  to  prosecute  the 
men  who  had  done  them  wrong  under  the  authority  of 


Chalmers's  political  anj^als.  129 

his  commissions.  And  notwithstanding  the  laudable 
endeavours  of  the  governor  to  procure  a  reconcilement 
which  the  happiness  of  all  required,  "  neither  party 
shelved  any  disposition  to  be  satisfied  with  less  than  the 
necks  of  its  adversaries."  Nor  were  these  the  only 
afflictions  of  New  York.  It  sadly  experienced  all  the 
pressures  which  never  fail  to  overwhelm  every  country 
whose  resources  are  not  fully  equal  to  its  enterprizes. 
With  design  to  replenish  a  treasury  which  had  never 
been  sufficiently  filled,  because  the  taxes  had  failed 
Fletcher  immediately  called  an  assembly.  This  body 
instantly  transmitted  an  address  to  William  expressing 
its  thankfulness  for  the  royal  care  in  sending  arms  and 
warlike  stores  for  the  defence  of  the  Colony.  It  repre- 
sented how  much  the  number  of  its  people  were  dimi- 
nished by  emigration  to  other  provinces  that  were 
happily  exempted  as  well  from  the  calamities  of  war  as 
the  payment  of  taxes :  That  those  who  remained  were 
reduced  to  the  greatest  poverty  while  their  neighbours 
subject  to  no  duties,  rob  them  of  their  trade.  That 
though  Albany  and  the  Indians  dependent  on  it  form 
an  ample  barrier  to  the  other  provinces  against  the 
incursions  of  the  French,  yet  New  York  was  left  to 
struo;o-le  alone  ao-ainst  the  common  dano;er,  while  little 
inclination  was  shewn  by  any  to  give  to  its  prayers  that 
aid,  which,  if  denied  to  justice,  ought  to  be  granted  to 
policy:  And  it  begged  the  commiseration  of  the  King 
and  Queen ;  for  a  sufficient  force  from  England,  or 
for  special  directions  to  the  other  colonies  to  assist  "  a 
peo[)le  who  must  otherwise  sink  under  their  load."  ^^  But 
while  the  assembly  felt  for  itself,  it  did  not  reflect,  that 
England  distracted  by  domestic  faction  and  engaged 
with  a  too  potent  rival,  was  little  able  to  give  tliat  as- 
sistance which  the  Colonies  should  have  furnished  during 
her  embarrassments  to  her.  'J'he  legislature  however 
enacted  laws  "for  satisfying  the  debts  of  the  government; 
for  raising  three  hundred  men  for  the  defence  of  the 
frontiers  ;  for  discharging  the  necessary  public  charges ; 
for  granting  a  rate  of  one  penny  in  the  pound  ot  the 


130  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

value  of  Estates  as  a  present  to  the  governor/'  ^^  Yet 
it  is  in  vain  to  impose  taxes  unless  the  objects  of  them 
are  at  the  same  time  enabled  to  pay :  And  those  that 
were  now  assessed  only  added  to  the  miseries  of  the 
people  without  producing  either  the  expected  revenue  or 
doing  credit  to  the  intentions  of  the  grantors.  The  gov- 
ernor warned  the  Secretary  of  State  "  that  it  would  be 
impossible  for  them  to  support  the  war  another  year  with- 
out the  contributions  of  their  neighbours."  Informed  of 
the  distresses  of  New  York  and  of  what  it  dreaded  in 
future,  Mary  thought  it  both  reasonable  and  necessary, 
that  the  other  colonies  should  contribute  to  the  defence 
of  a  frontier  on  which  the  safety  of  all  depended  :  And 
she  transmitted  a  mandatory  letter  in  October  1692; 
signifying  the  royal  will  "that  upon  the  request  of  the 
governor  of  New  York  they  should  immediately  send 
him  such  aid  in  men  or  otherwise  for  the  securit}^  of  that 
province  against  the  French  as  the  security  of  each  should 
permit."'"'  But  these  measures  hoAvever  wise  and  just  came 
too  late  to  ward  off  the  severest  stroke  that  the  Indian 
allies  of  England  ever  received,  or  were  afterwards  too 
much  neglected  or  contemned  to  afford  the  effectual  re- 
lief that  had  been  anxiously  asked. 

In  the  meantime  Count  Frontenack  being  reinforced 
with  two  thousand  troops  and  a  supply  of  warlike  stores 
from  France  and  judging  wisely  that  it  was  impossible 
to  protect  the  frontiers  of  Canada  by  defensive  opera- 
tions against  an  enemy  no  less  remarkable  for  bravery 
than  enterprize,  resolved  to  strike  such  a  blow  as  should 
at  once  convince  them  of  his  power,  and  excite  their 
contempt  for  the  imbecility  of  their  friends.  And  his 
success  was  equal  to  his  hopes,  because  his  project  was 
executed  with  vigour  and  prudence.  Six  hundred  men, 
composed  of  the  troops,  of  the  Canadians,  and  Indians, 
marched  fi'om  La  Prairie  in  January  1693,  under  the 
conduct  of  three  lieutenants,  Mantet,  Courtmanche,  and 
La  None  :  And  by  an  exertion  of  zeal  and  perseverance, 
which  shews  what  man  is  capable  of  perfornung  when 
he  is  really  in  earnest,  they  arrived  in  the  vicinity  of 


CHA.LMERS\S    POLITICAL    ANNALS.  131 

Schenectady,  after  a  melancholy  march  of  twenty  days 
through  the  mtervenient  forest,  then  covered  with  snow. 
A  deserter  alarmed  Schenectady.  The  news  was  in- 
stantly carried  to  Albany :  Bat,  with  an  inattention 
which  evinces  how  much  every  one  was  surprised  at 
such  a  visit  in  the  depth  of  winter,  they  gave  no  warn- 
ing to  the  Mohawks  of  their  danger,  though  their  castles 
stood  at  no  great  distance,  though  against  them  chiefly 
the  hatchet  was  lifted  up.  Three  of  their  towns  were 
surprized  successively;  and  three  hundred  prisoners 
were  taken,  of  whom  one  hundred  were  warriors.  Never 
had  so  great  a  calamity  befallen  the  Tribes ;  never  did 
any  disaster  make  so  deep  an  impression  on  minds, 
which  are  trained  to  bear  adversity  with  fortitude. 
Schuyler,  the  commander  of  Albany,  hastily  collected 
five  hundred  men,  composed  of  the  regulars,  the  militia, 
and  Indians.  He  pursued  the  enemj'  with  a  vigour 
which  compensated  for  his  late  remissness,  whom  he 
compelled  to  retire  after  various  attacks.  And  he  re- 
covered upwards  of  forty  prisoners.  Few  of  the  Cana- 
dians had  returned  to  glory  in  their  success  and  suffer- 
ings, but  to  the  disgrace  of  colonial  policy  many  of  the 
Five  Nations,  who  flocked  to  the  standard  of  Schuyler 
in  defence  of  their  country,  appeared  without  arms  ;  and 
the  Mohawks,  dreading  the  fate  of  their  friends,  did  not 
engage  with  their  usual  ardour.  On  the  ninth  day  from 
that  on  which  the  French  irruption  was  discovered, 
Fletcher  arrived  at  Albany,  though  distant  one  hundred 
and  forty  miles,  Avith  three  hundred  men :  The  whole 
regiment  of  the  militia  of  the  capital  having  offered 
themselves  as  voluntiers  with  an  ardour  which  shews 
how  much  they  preferred  the  safety  of  the  state  to  the 
gratifications  of  ease  or  of  interest.  The  Indians  as  a 
token  of  gratitude  for  the  singular  activity  of  Fletcher 
called  him  for  ever  after,  according  to  their  manner, 
"the  great  swift  arrow."  The  reinforcement  however 
which  the  diligence  of  the  governor  had  brought,  was 
of  little  real  advantage.  The  severity  of  the  w^eather 
and  the  want  of  food  compelled  Schu}'ler  to  give  over  a 


132  THE    CONTINUATION   OF 

pursuit,  which  had  well  nigh  proved  fatal  to  the  enemy. 
And  the  French  returned  to  Canada  with  the  loss  of 
eighty  men  who  died  of  fatigue,  exclusive  of  a  smaller 
number  who  had  fallen  in  the  repeated  assaults  of  their 
animated  pursuers.  Fletcher  "wiped  away  the  tears 
of  the  Mohawks ; "  he  provided  them  with  houses  and 
provisions:  And  he  advised  them  to  convince  the 
Canadians,  that  misfortune  had  not  damped  a  courage 
that  had  so  often  proved  fatal  to  their  enemies.  But 
the  Sa(;hems  assured  him,  that  the  continuance  of  a  war 
long  and  disastrous,  during  which  they  had  neither  been 
supported  by  their  brethren  the  English  nor  supplied 
with  warlike  stores,  in  the  same  manner  as  the  French 
furnished  their  Indian  friends,  had  broken  their  strength : 
Yet  if  all  the  colonies  would  join  in  good  earnest 
Canada  might  still  be  reduced.  The  governor  hastened 
back  to  New  York:  Leaving  the  frontiers  distracted 
and  defenceless.®^  The  assembly  which  soon  after  con- 
vened, pleased  with  his  zeal,  not  only  returned  him 
thanks  but  gave  him  more  substantial  marks  of  regard. 
And  sensible  of  the  public  danger  it  granted  six  hundred 
pounds  for  one  year  s  pay  of  three  hundred  volunteers, 
for  the  defence  of  the  province,  which  late  experience 
had  shewn  might  be  so  easily  invaded.®*  While  New 
York  during  this  disastrous  season  lost  the  fur-trade 
and  paid  the  enormous  interest  of  ten  in  the  hundred 
for  money  to  support  a  feeble  warfare,  the  colonies  on 
either  side  of  her  enjoyed  the  advantageous  tranquillity 
of  the  most  profound  peace,  disregarding  the  miseries 
of  others.  Pennsylvania  declared  she  had  only  good 
wishes  to  send.  East  Jersey  gave  two  hundred  and 
forty-eight  pounds  and  promised  more.  Connecticut, 
though  then  able  to  bring  five  thousand  men  into  the 
field,  refused  either  to  detach  her  militia  or  to  permit 
the  raising  of  recruits.  All  disregarded  the  acts  of 
navigation,  while  the  trade  of  England  was  ruined 
equally  by  the  remissness  of  her  rulers,  and  by  the  fatal 
depredations  of  a  war,  on  the  success  of  which  the  com- 
mon liberty  depended.     Judging  of  the  future  conduct 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  133 

of  those  colonies  by  the  past  Fletcher  solicited  his 
master  for  two  additional  companies  to  be  paid  out  of 
the  funds  established  for  the  English  army,  and  for  arms 
and  ammunition ;  as  absolutely  necessary  for  the  safety 
of  his  province.  While  men  of  discernment  deplored 
the  evils  of  disunion  they  exclaimed :  "  How  shameful 
that  a  handful  of  Canadians  should  be  suffered  to  nestle 
and  to  grow  to  maturity,  while  the  noble  colonies  of 
England  were  able  to  drive  them  into  the  sea."  ^^  Eno;- 
lish  ministers  have  been  at  all  times  guided  by  the 
plausibility  of  this  remark,  but  they  have  generally  acted 
wrong,  because  it  was  untrue:  They  did  not  reflect, 
that  the  few,  animated  by  one  soul,  had  at  all  times 
conquered  the  many  divided  by  a  thousand  factions. 

When  the  representations  of  Fletcher  before  men- 
tioned were  communicated  to  William  the  apparent 
weakness  of  New  York,  the  divisions  of  the  other  prov- 
inces, and  the  superiority  of  France  made  a  permanent 
impression  on  his  mind.  He  instantly  revoked  the 
commission  which  had  been  formerly  given  to  Phips  to 
command  the  military  force  of  Connecticut  and  trans- 
ferred it  to  the  governor  of  York :  Assigning  as  a  reason 
what  shews  the  extent  of  the  present  policy ;  "  that  by 
these  means  the  one  will  be  best  protected  fi'om  the 
attempts  of  its  enemies  and  the  other  will  be  most  ex- 
peditiously aided  upon  any  sudden  irruption."  But 
though  the  legality  of  this  plausible  measure  appeared 
extremely  clear  to  the  wisest  English  lawyers,  }^et  we 
shall  find  it  disputed  by  Connecticut  and  its  operation 
therefore  prevented.  Upon  the  request  of  the  governor 
a  considerable  supply  of  warlike  stores  were  sent  to 
New  York,  in  order  to  enable  him  at  the  cost  of  Eng- 
land to  defend  a  province  which  was  unable  then  to 
protect  itself  ^^ 

In  the  meantime  the  more  vigorous  exertions  of 
France  defeated  every  project  which  had  for  its  end 
either  the  annoyance  of  Canada  or  the  defence  of  the 
colonies  or  their  Indian  allies.  To  Count  Frontenac 
she  sent  reinforcements  of  men,  supplies  of  warlike-stores 


134  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

and  presents  to  the  Tribes  who  were  attached  to  her 
fortune.  Through  the  instrumentality  of  the  missioners, 
who  have  been  at  all  times  extremely  useful  in  promot- 
ing her  measures,  she  debauched  the  fidelity  of  the  Five 
Nations,  who  had  suffered  prodigiously  from  the  war, 
while  they  had  received  no  real  aid  fi-om  the  colonies 
which  they  had  defended.  This  powerful  confederacy 
inclined  therefore  to  peace.  And  the  Oneyda  tribe 
actually  ^ent  a  message  to  Canada.  Fletcher  heard 
with  concern  of  the  intrigues  of  France  and  of  the 
probable  defection  of  his  most  useful  allies.  And  he 
invited  them  to  a  conference  at  Albany  in  July  1693. 
He  apologized  for  not  meeting  them,  according  to  his 
promise,  when  the  trees  began  last  to  bud ;  he  condoled 
the  loss  of  the  brave  warriors  who  had  fallen  in  battle ; 
he  chid  them  for  entertaining  wishes  for  peace ;  he 
warned  them  of  the  perfidious  conduct  of  France :  And 
having  delivered  the  presents  which  he  had  brought 
with  him  from  England,  he  renewed  the  covenant  of 
friendship  for  all  the  colonies.  They  made  answer: 
That  having  been  so  long  involved  in  bloody  warfare 
their  castles  were  filled  with  sorrow;  that  in  ancient 
times  on  such  occasions  the  propositions  were  only  those 
of  peace,  but  so  changed  was  the  state  of  things,  notliing 
is  now  spoken  of  but  war,  to  which  each  prompts  the 
other  continually ;  that  they  had  heard  with  joy  of  pre- 
parations for  some  time  made  to  attack  Canada  with 
vessels  on  the  great  river,  which  they  had  been  ready  to 
assist  b}'  land,  which  by  one  vigorous  effort  had  put  an 
end  to  destructive  hostilities,  but  they  were  of  late  told 
nothing  of  that  design  ;  yet  that  though  they  might  be 
cast  to  and  fro  in  storms  they  were  determined  to 
remain  stedfast  to  the  last  man  as  they  had  engaged  in 
the  beginning  of  the  troubles :  And  they '  returned 
heart-felt  thanks  to  the  great  King  and  Queen  for  send- 
ing them  arms  and  ammunition,  when  they  were  in 
greatest  need  of  them.  To  Fletcher  the}^  gave  a  present 
of  furs  as  a  mark  of  their  esteem.  But  they  delivered 
no  belt  of  wampum  as  a  confirmation   of  sincerity,  to 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  135 

convert  their  mutual  speeches  into  a  treaty  by  which 
both  parties  were  to  consider  themselves  as  bound. 
They  declared  their  intention  of  concluding  a  peace  Avith 
the  Dionondadies,  a  powerful  tribe  in  alliance  with 
Canada:  Giving  reason,  which  probably  was  not  the 
true  one ;  that  it  will  both  strengthen  us  and  weaken 
the  enemy.  Though  the  governor  perceived  the  influence 
of  French  intrigue  he  approved  of  a  proposal  so  ex- 
tremely wise  and  gave  them  a  belt  to  deliver  in  his 
name,  that  he  also  might  be  bound  in  the  treaty  as  a 
party.  The  colonies  and  England  have  had  sufficient 
cause  to  regret,  that  they  have  but  too  often  treated  as 
children  the  confederated  natiojis,  who  on  the  most  try- 
ing occasions  have  thought  and  acted  like  men.  Fletcher 
communicated  the  result  of  this  treaty  to  the  ministers 
of  England :  Assuring  them  that  while  the  French  bade 
high  for  a  peace  with  tlie  Five  Nations,  Admiral 
Wheeler's  disappointment  at  Boston  liad  given  the 
greatest  dissatisfaction  to  warriors,  who  could  not  com- 
prehend the  cause,  and  who  upbraided  the  neiglibouring 
provinces  with  cowardice  and  sloth.  And  whilst  he 
gave  warning,  that  should  they  lose  the  affections  of 
their  Indian  friends  the  southern  colonies,  however 
secure  at  present,  would  be  instantly  steeped  in  blood, 
he  asked  for  additional  presents  to  avert  a  catastrophe 
more  easy  to  prevent  than  afterwards  to  change  lor  the 
safety  of  the  people.  ^'^  Thus  whatever  superiority  Eng- 
land and  her  colonies  may  have  formed  over  that  mighty 
confederacy,  they  were  really  tlie  tributaries  of  a  peoi>le, 
whose  friendship  has  been  at  all  times  purchased  since 
they  could  not  be  conquered. 

Fletcher  hastened  back  to  New  York  to  meet  an 
assembly  which  was  governed  by  very  dissimilar  princi- 
ples. Two  objects  chiefly  he  reconnnended  to  the  con- 
sideration of  the  legislature :  "  The  settling  of  an  able 
ministry ;  "  the  establishment  of  the  revenue  during  the 
life  of  the  King.  And  it  seems  to  have  paid  a  just  re- 
gard to  both.  The  delegates  having  transmitted  to  the 
Council  a  bill  "for  the  establishment  of  a  protestant 


136  THE    CONTINUATION   OF 

ministry,"  which  gave  the  election  of  rectors  to  the 
vestrymen  and  Church  wardens,  an  amendment  was 
added  investing  the  power  of"  collation  in  the  governor : 
But  the  representatives  of  the  people  refused  to  assent 
to  an  alteration,  which  deducted  so  much  weight  from 
the  scale  of  popular  power.  And  while  the  governor 
passed  a  law,  which  contrary  to  his  instructions  thus 
deprived  the  King  of  his  prerogative  and  his  successors 
of  influence,  he  reprimanded  the  delegates  for  their 
dissent  in  terms  degrading  to  both,  because  they  were 
such  as  a  governor  ought  not  to  use  nor  the  representa- 
tives of  freemen  to  receive.  Yet  this  law  Avas  confirmed 
by  William  at  a  subsequent  day.  It  was  couched  in 
such  language  as  gave  cause  to  the  Church  of  England 
to  think  that  it  was  enacted  for  her  establishment  alone 
and  room  for  the  dissenters  to  contend  that  it  was  passed 
equally  for  the  benefit  of  them.  In  April  1695,  the 
Delegates  by  a  resolution,  Avhich  seems  to  have  been 
received  as  an  exposition  which  every  one  ought  to  obey, 
declared :  That  the  Vestrymcm  and  Church  wardens 
have  power  to  call  a  protestant  dissenting  minister,  who 
ought  to  be  maintained  as  the  law  directs. ^^  The  public 
revenue  which  had  been  granted  during  the  foregoing 
session  was  continued  for  five  years  longer.  And  a  law 
was  passed  for  restraining  and  punishing  privateers  and 
pirates,  which  late  irregularities  had  made  necessary, 
and  which  did  not  answer  its  end,  because  it  contradicted 
the  spirit  of  the  people.''^  When  Fletcher  was  told  how 
much  the  inhabitants  of  the  frontiers  dreaded  the  ap- 
proach of  the  Canadians  he  detached  three  hundred  men 
for  the  defence  of  Albany.  But  he  at  the  same  time 
gave  warning  to  the  Lords  of  the  committee  of  Colonies, 
that  an  unproductive  revenue  would  not  be  sufficient  to 
defray  the  expence  of  this  little  army ;  that  the  prov- 
inces had  declined  to  settle  their  quotas  of  aid  in  pur- 
suance of  the  royal  requisition  ;  that  the  monej^  sent  by 
Virginia  and  Maryland  had  proved  extremely  inade- 
quate, while  East  Jersey  had  contributed  sixty-five  men 
and  four  hundred  pounds  in  money,  and  the  Colonies  of 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  137 

New  England  had  given  a  positive  denial  of  any.  He 
enforced  the  necessity  of  another  expedition  against 
Canada,  in  order  to  put  an  end  at  once  to  a  consuming 
war,  Avliich  the  colonists  though  a  numerous  people, 
from  their  disunion  and  factions  were  unable  to  prosecute 
with  effect.  He  solicited  a  reinforcement  of  troops  and 
a  supply  of  stores  of  war  for  the  defence  of  a  province, 
which,  since  the  arrival  of  governor  Sloughter  had  spent 
twenty  thousand  pounds  and  on  all  occasions  had  stood 
foremost  in  the  day  of  battle.'^ 

The  singularity  as  well  as  the  importance  of  the 
representations  of  Fletcher  procured  the  attention  of  the 
ministers  of  England.  In  the  beginning  of  the  year 
1094,  two  additional  companies  of  a  hundred  men  each 
were  put  upon  the  establishment  of  the  English  army, 
and  with  recruits  for  the  former  two  were  sent  to  New 
York  for  its  protection.  Artillery  and  amnmnition 
were  transported  thither  "  notwithstanding  the  low  state 
of  the  Kino-'s  mao-azines : "  The  Board  of  Ordnance 
remonstrating  against  such  an  application  of  its  funds 
as  seemed  inconsistent  with  the  grant  of  Parliament. 
The  Colonies  having  either  refused  or  declined  to  furnish 
that  province  with  their  proportions  of  aid,  in  conformity 
to  the  Queens  requisition  of  October  1692,  the  quota  of 
each  was  now  apportioned  and  each  was  required  to 
furnish  it  to  New  York,  whose  extraordinary  had 
hitherto  shielded  the  whole  from  the  neatest  of  dancers. 
But  it  soon  appeared  what  wise  men  indeed  foresaw, 
that  all  requisition  is  vain  where  there  exists  no  power 
to  compel  the  refractory  or  to  punish  the  disobedient. 

Fletcher  departed  for  Connecticut  the  moment  he 
had  prorogued  the  Assembly  in  order  to  assume  the 
command  of  the  militia  of  that  colony.  But  here  he 
encountered  a  peojjle  who  perfectly  understood  their 
interest,  and  who  little  understood  the  principles,  and 
despised  the  practice  of  passive-obedience.  He  presented 
the  royal  commission  to  the  general  court  and  required 
its  assistance  in  executing  the  King's  intentions.  It 
however  remarked ;  that  it  did  not  tind  any  words  in  a 


138  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

commission,  of  which  it  had  no  notice,  superseding  the 
charter  of  the  colony :  It  requested  him  therefore  to 
suspend  the  execution  of  his  pretended  powers  till  the 
event  of  a  proposed  application  for  redress :  And  it 
expressed  a  readiness  to  aid  New  York  on  just  occasions 
against  the  common  enemy,  offering  six  hundred  pounds, 
payable  in  the  produce  of  the  country  as  its  quota. 
Nevertheless  while  Fletcher  disclaimed  any  interference 
with  regard  to  the  civil  government  or  with  the  Charter 
he  offered  to  grant  the  chief  command  of  the  military 
force  and  to  continue  the  former  officers  and  he  demand- 
ed an  effectual  compliance  with  a  power  which  had  been 
vested  in  the  crown  by  act  of  Parliament  and  could  not 
be  demised  from  the  present  king.  That  the  right  to 
command  the  militia  was  inherent  in  the  crown  the 
General  Court  freely  admitted :  But  shrewdly  insisted 
that  it  had  formerly  been  granted  away  to  the  Colony, 
which  it  had  enjoyed  during  the  two  preceding  reigns. 
This  pointed  argument  was  assuredly  decisive.  And  it 
is  astonishing  that  the  great  lawyers  and  statesmen  who 
advised  the  commission  did  not  see  the  subject  in  the 
same  light  since  the  charter  remained  uncancelled.  The 
General  Court  adjourned.  And  Fletcher,  forseeing  a 
tumult,  and  dreading  personal  affronts,  returned  to 
New  York,  baffled  and  chagrined.  Connecticut  consid- 
ering the  dark  aspect  of  the  times,  the  great  difficulty 
with  regard  to  present  enjoyments,  sent  Winthrop,  a 
man  of  some  talents  and  art,  as  agent  to  England,  to 
defend  her  privileges.  She  levied  a  considerable  tax  to 
defray  his  expenses ;  judging  wisely  that  when  all  derive 
a  benefit  all  ought  to  pay.  And  she  appointed  a  day 
of  fasting,  and  of  prayer  to  seek  the  lord  for  his  gracious 
presence  with  him.  Strengthened  thus  by  the  gold  and 
supplications  of  his  countrymen  he  opened  his  business 
by  stating  falsehood  to  his  sovereign,  by  accusing- 
Fletcher  of  attempting  to  seize  the  civil  government, 
which  he  had  expressly  disclaimed,  because  Winthrop 
knew  that  it  was  safer  to  recriminate  than  to  attack  the 
prerogative  in  the  face  of  a  Court  attached  to  regal 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  139 

power.  His  petition,  praying  for  securit}^  of  the  rights  of 
the  colony,  for  an  explanation  of  Fletcher  s  commission, 
was  however  referred  to  the  crown  lawyers.  After 
hearing  counsel  they  reported:  That  the  Charter  had 
given  the  ordinary  power  of  the  militia  to  the  governor ; 
but  that  their  majestys  may  nevertheless  constitute  a 
commander-in-chief j  with  authority  to  order  such  portion 
of  each  plantation,  as  may  be  thought  fit,  and  in  case 
of  invasion,  maj^  with  the  advice  of  the  governor  com- 
mand even  that  part  of  the  military  force  of  Connecticut 
as  shall  remain  within  the  Colony.  William  approved 
of  an  opinion,  which  was  so  agreeable  to  him,  which 
was  probably  so  framed  as  to  please.  And  he  appointed 
one  hundred  and  twenty  men  as  the  quota  to  be  furnish- 
ed by  Connecticut  during  the  war,  which  the  agent 
promised  should  be  punctually  given  upon  the  request 
of  the  governor  of  New  York  and  which  this  officer  was 
empowered  to  command  during  their  cooperation.  The 
ol)noxious  commission  of  Fletcher  was  recalled.  But 
Connecticut  having  thus  carried  her  favourite  point, 
found  reasons  enow  for  withholding  the  aid,  which  her 
Sovereign  had  formally  asked  and  her  agent  had  solemn- 
ly promised.  And  the  authority  of  English  government 
was  shaken,  because  it  had  been  exerted  improperly. 
Winthrop  artfully  begged  the  royal  approbation  of  the 
civil  government  of  his  country;  but  though  that 
monarch  promised  effectual  protection  of  its  chartered 
privileges  he  did  not  confirm  what  he  did  not  approve." 
How  amusing  is  it  to  remark  the  difference  of  zeal  with 
which  Connecticut  defended  her  borders  against  the 
irruption  of  a  barbarous  enemy,  and  opposed  the  in- 
fringement of  her  supposed  immunities:  In  this  she 
acted  with  ardour,  because  she  contended  for  independ- 
ence :  In  that,  she  was  scarcely  roused  from  her  usual 
repose,  because  she  saw  no  real  danger,  being  defended 
by  others. 

While  New  York  struo;o;led  without  effectual  aid 
against  the  difficulties  of  the  war,  hei"  counsels  were 
distracted  and  her  repose  disturbed  by  two  implacable 


140  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

factions,  which  had  grown  out  of  the  Revolution  and 
which  no  means  had  been  yet  found  to  extirpate. 
Though  in  order  to  prevent  the  evils  of  discord,  the 
adherents  of  Leisler  had  been  pardoned  and  their  estates 
restored ;  yet  it  was  in  vain  to  offer  indemnity  to  men, 
who  did  not  admit  that  they  had  ever  committed  a 
crime:  They  even  refused  to  sue  out  their  pardons. 
And  some  of  them  being  chosen  representatives,  though 
their  attainders  remained  in  force,  the  governor  thought 
this  irregularity  illegal  and  dissolved  an  Assembly  which 
admitted  them  to  vote  as  legislators  :  What  he  deemed 
a  just  exertion  of  prerogative,  they  resented  as  an  act 
of  arbitrary  power.  On  the  other  hand  their  opponents 
insisted  with  equal  vehemence :  that  it  would  be  contrary 
to  every  sound  rule  of  justice  and  of  policy,  to  admit 
men  to  sit  in  the  legislature,  whom  the  laws  had  con- 
demned lor  the  greatest  of  crimes ;  that  it  was  doing 
injustice  to  the  innocent  to  permit  those  to  usurp  their 
privileges,  who  had  forfeited  their  rights  by  their  guilt. 
The  public  tranquillity  was  wisely  preferred  to  the 
clamours  of  either  party :  And  at  a  subsequent  day  a 
pardon  was  passed  under  the  great  seal  of  England, 
without  payment  of  fees.'^  Fletcher  exerted  himself 
with  a  laudable  sj)irit  to  heal  the  wounds  of  the  people 
committed  to  his  care.  He  forbad  names  of  distinction ; 
he  set  before  them  the  blessings  of  concord;  he  did 
equal  justice  to  every  one:  And  the  public  quietude 
appeared  to  be  again  happily  restored.  But  it  was 
merely  that  sullen  indifference  of  the  people  which  the 
wisest  statesmen  dreaded  as  the  certain  indication  of 
approaching  convulsions.  He  was  roused  by  certain 
information  from  all  parts  of  frequent  meetings ;  where 
violence  soon  begot  resentment,  where  reflections  were 
thrown  on  those  in  power  and  reparation  was  demanded 
for  the  blood  of  Leisler.  During  his  surprize  at  a 
change,  unexpected  and  alarming,  he  discovered,  "  that 
Sir  William  Phipps  was  the  incendiary,  who  fanned 
the  dying  embers  of  former  discontents."  Abraham 
Gouverneur,  convicted  of  murder  in  1691,  because  he 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  141 

had  aided  Leisler  in  defending  the  fort,  made  his  escape 
into  New  England.  And  a  royal  governor  degraded 
his  station  when  he  protected  a  criminal  who  had  fled 
from  justice.  Through  this  man  Phipps  carried  on 
intrigues  among  a  people,  uninformed  and  therefore 
vehement.  At  the  same  time  that  Fletcher  demanded 
satisfaction  for  a  conduct  so  inconsistent  with  his  duty 
he  sent  a  messenger  to  require  that  the  criminal  should 
be  delivered  up  to  the  animadversion  of  the  laws.  But  to 
the  people  of  Massachusetts  and  their  ruler  the  conduct 
of  Leisler  and  his  adherents  appeared  as  innocent,  as 
praiseworthy,  as  their  condemnations  were  illegal  and 
therefore  unjust.  And  when  they  remembered,  that 
both  had  acted  the  same  part  at  the  Revolution,  they 
exclaimed  :  If  what  Leisler  and  his  followers  have  done 
be  ill,  how  came  the  King  and  Queen  to  sit  upon  the 
throne.  Far  from  delivering  up  one  of  the  most  zealous 
partizans  to  punishment  they  resolved,  not  only  to  give 
them  protection  at  Boston,  but  to  aid  them  with  tlieir 
influence  in  England,  procure  a  parliamentary  redress 
of  their  wrongs."  And  they  instructed  their  agents, 
Ashurst  and  Phips,  to  promote  their  views.  Invigorated 
by  this  powerful  support,  Gouverneur  and  Leisler  suc- 
cessfully petitioned  William  towards  the  end  of  the  year 
1694,  for  leave  to  apply  to  Parliament  to  reverse  the 
attainder  of  Leisler,  the  father,  and  his  adherents,  long 
after  they  had  been  pardoned  under  the  great  seal  and 
their  estates  restored.  Constantine  Phips  framed  the 
bill ;  Sir  William  Ashurst  sat  as  chairman  of  the  Com- 
mittee to  which  it  was  committed :  And  it  was  passed 
into  a  law  in  April  1695,  though  the  most  convincing 
reasons  were  oft'ered  against  it  by  New  York,  though  it 
was  in  some  measure  opposed  by  the  Court.''®  The 
agents  gloried  in  their  success,  which  they  hoped  would 
be  attended  by  a  train  of  good  consequences:  They 
boasted,  that  they  should  never  do  New  England  so 
much  good,  as  by  getting  this  bill  enacted.''"  For,  it 
passed  a  kind  of  censure  on  the  administration  of  a 
province,   which   Massachusetts   hated   ever   since   the 


142  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

arrival  of  Sloughter ;  because  it  was  composed  chiefly 
of  the  old  counsellors  of  James  2d  :  It  was  supposed  to 
contain  a  Parliamentary  recognition  of  the  rectitude  of 
the  violent  proceedings  at  Boston  that  produced  the 
Revolution.  How  striking  is  the  scene,  in  which  we 
behold  the  agents  of  New  England  soliciting  the  Parlia- 
ment to  reverse  the  judgment  of  a  court  of  justice  in  a 
neighbouring  colony ;  but  the  act  would  have  passed  to 
little  purpose  had  not  the  legislature  been  possessed  of 
the  liighest  of  human  authority :  We  see  the  King  and 
the  great  council  of  the  nation  made  the  instruments  in 
gratifying  the  little  resentments  of  little  men.  Massa- 
chusetts at  the  same  time  struck  a  more  deadly  blow  at 
New  York.  In  pursuance  of  general  expressions  in  her 
charter  she  now  took  possession  of  Martha's  Vineyard 
and  other  islands  in  that  vicinity,  lying  near  the  coast 
of  New  England.  Yet  these  had  long  formed  depend- 
encies of  New  York  and  paid  taxes  towards  the  support 
of  her  power,  because  they  had  been  granted  to  the 
Duke  of  York  while  his  pretensions  however  defective 
could  not  easily  be  disputed.  But,  it  was  now  in  vain 
for  the  Council  to  resolve,  that  these  islands  were  not 
included  in  the  charter  before  mentioned;  or  for  the 
governor  to  threaten  to  defend  the  rights  of  his  province 
by  force.  The  inhabitants  preferred  the  government  of 
Massachusetts,  and  yielded  a  willing  obedience  to  Phips, 
because  they  entertained  the  same  sentiments  religious 
and  political  as  pervaded  New  England.^"  And  the 
one  province  gained  an  augmentation  of  people  and  of 
a  revenue  which  the  other  now  lost,  though  already  too 
defective  with  regard  to  both.  While  Massachusetts 
rejoiced  in  the  success  of  her  intrigues,  New  York  long 
mourned  the  evils  of  personal  altercation,  which  those 
intrigues  engendered  on  a  credulous  people,  and  of  civil 
distractions  which  the  act  of  Parliament  before  mention- 
ed long  unhappily  continued. 

In  the  meantime  the  treaty  of  pacification,  begun 
towards  the  beginning  of  the  year  1694,  between  the 
Five  Nations  and  the  French,  preserved  the  frontiers  in 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  143 

an  usual  state  of  repose.  And  this  measure  was  of  the 
greatest  importance  to  the  several  colonies,  which  were 
shielded  from  the  incursions  of  their  enemies  by  the 
successful  exertions  of  that  gallant  people.  The  governor 
of  New  York  informed  the  neighbouring  provinces  of 
the  reasons  that  had  induced  their  Indian  allies  to  in- 
cline to  peace:  Assuring  them,  that  it  would  be  impos- 
sible to  prevent  the  tribes  from  making  a  separate  treaty 
unless  the  strongest  assurances  were  given  of  real  aid  to 
enable  them  to "  carry  on  a  war  which  they  alone  were 
no  longer  able  to  support.  And  in  order  to  promote 
these  views  he  invited  Commissioners  to  meet  the  Five 
Nations  at  Albany  upon  the  return  of  their  negotiators 
from  Canada.  Massachusetts,  Connecticut,  and  New 
Jersey  sent  Deputies  to  attend  Fletcher  at  the  proposed 
Indian  treaty  in  Augiist  1694.  Decanasora,  the  orator  of 
the  Five  Nations,  gave  a  public  account  of  his  embassage 
to  Canada,  which  was  more  replete  with  eloquence  than 
with  just  information.  Yet  it  did  not  escape  the  pene- 
tration of  Fletcher  that  it  would  be  vain  to  amuse  them 
any  longer  with  unsubstantial  promises :  And  knowing 
that  it  was  not  in  his  power,  to  give  them  assurances 
of  effectual  aid,  he  invited  the  chief  Sachems  to  a  private 
conference.  He  asked  them  if  they  had  really  concluded 
a  peace  with  Count  Frontenac.  They  candidly  answered ; 
that  as  they  were  unable  to  carry  on  the  war,  the  treaty 
wanted  only  his  approbation.  Unable  to  blame  a  con- 
duct which  was  prompted  by  necessity,  he  gave  them 
his  consent  on  condition  that  the  ancient  chain  of  amity 
with  the  English  should  remain  unbroken  and  unstained. 
He  warned  them  however  that  the  moment  the}-  suffered 
the  French  to  repossess  fort  Frontenac,  situated  in  the 
center  of  their  hunting-grounds,  their  independence 
must  cease :  And  he  promised  to  maix-h  the  whole  force 
of  his  government  to  their  aid  should  their  encroaching 
enemies  ever  attempt  it.  In  return  they  assured  him, 
that  they  had  resolved  to  insist  on  what  he  now  recom- 
mended as  an  essential  article  of  the  ensuing  pacifica- 
tion.    And    they   faithfully    performed    what   they    at 


144  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

present  agreed  on,  thougli  we  shall  find,  that  he  was 
unable  to  fulfill  the  magnificent  assurances  which  he 
gave  them,  and  upon  the  faith  of  which  they  too  much 
relied.  The  great  Council  at  Onondaga,  the  body 
politic  of  the  Five  Nations,  with  a  firmness  worthy  of  a 
Roman  Senate,  determined,  that  no  distress  should 
force  them  to  depart  from  two  points  in  the  ensuing 
treaty ;  never  to  allow  the  French  to  regain  fort  Fron- 
tenac  ;  never  to  include  their  Indian  dependents.  And 
neither  the  presents,  nor  promises,  nor  threats  of  the 
governor  of  Canada  made  any  impression  on  a  poor 
but  magnanimous  people,  whom  it  was  so  difiicult  to 
conquer,  or  corrupt,  or  frighten.  The  efforts  however  of 
Count  Frontenac  gave  the  greatest  satisfaction  to  the 
Tribes  who  were  attached  to  his  fortune,  because  he  dis- 
dained to  accept  a  separate  peace,  that  had  sacrificed 
their  interests  to  his  quiet.^^  And  men  of  discernment 
remarked:  that  this  conduct  no  less  honourable  than 
just  reflected  disgrace  on  the  policy  of  the  English,  who 
neither  gave  the  Five  Nations  the  protection  which  is 
due  to  subjects,  nor  furnished  the  aid  that  allies  may 
claim. 

When  by  the  firmness  of  both  parties  the  conferences 
that  were  to  give  peace  to  so  many  nations  Avere  broken 
off  the  war  was  renewed  with  a  vigour  heightened  by 
disapi^ointment.  The  politest  of  nations  remembering 
what  she  had  suffered,  outdid  the  Warriors,  whom  she 
denominated  savages,  in  her  cruelties  to  the  miserable. 
The  confederates  severely  retaliated  on  the  allies  of 
France.  Amid  the  inhuman  scenes  that  were  then 
acted  by  both  parties,  it  did  not  escape  the  sagacity  of 
the  experienced  Frontenac,  that  it  was  the  persuasions 
and  promises  of  Fletcher  that  had  frustrated  his  projects 
for  the  happiness  of  Canada;  and  he  resolved  by  a 
vigorous  effort  to  expose  the  weakness  of  the  English 
to  the  eyes  of  a  people  who  had  confided  in  their  wisdom 
and  aid.  He  prepared  to  attack  the  Mohawks,  who 
were  the  most  attached  to  his  enemy,  and  the  borders 
of  New  York,  durino;  the  winter  of  1694-5.     Havino; 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  145 

penetrated  his  designs  however  Fletcher  was  enabled  by 
the  Assembly  to  send  a  small  reinforcement  to  Albany. 
He  asked  the  assistance  of  the  neighbouring  colonies 
witli  his  wonted  success.  Indeed  East  Jersey  sent  him 
thirty  men  on  that  urgent  occasion :  Yet  he  complained 
to  the  ministers  of  England  "  that  it  made  war  on  the 
trade  of  New  York  by  prohibiting  the  products  of  the 
one  from  being  sent  to  the  markets  of  the  other."  But 
with  greater  effect  he  asked  his  sovereign  for  presents 
to  the  Indians  and  for  punctual  pay  to  the  regular 
troops.  ^^  The  governor  of  Canada,  perceiving  his 
designs  discovered  and  preparations  made  to  repel  his 
incursions,  turned  his  views  to  the  great  western  lakes. 
He  detached  several  parties  into  that  narrow  country 
surrounded  by  those  immense  collections  of  water,  deno- 
minated Erie  and  Ontario,  partly  in  order  to  surprize 
the  Five  Nations,  while  hunting  in  security,  but  more 
to  know  the  present  condition  of  fort  Frontenac  which 
had  been  abandoned  during  the  year  1688.  And  he 
succeeded  in  both  his  projects,  because  orders  wisely 
given  were  punctually  executed.  That  intrepid  people 
soon  took  a  severe  revenge :  They  defeated  a  large  body 
of  Indians  friendly  to  France,  as  they  marched  into 
Canada.  The  tidings  of  this  disaster  determined  the 
Governor  of  that  Colony,  to  execute  the  measure  he  had 
already  resolved  on.  He  knew  the  importance  of  the 
fortress  before  mentioned,  both  as  it  secured  in  a  great 
degree  the  communications  of  the  more  Western  country 
around  Missilimackinac  and  as  it  could  be  easil}'  convert- 
ed into  a  place  of  arms  and  retreat  in  the  j)rojected 
enterprizes  against  the  confederated  nations.  In  July 
1695  the  French  easily  retook  possession  of  a  fort,  ^\■hich 
was  of  equal  advantage  and  importance  during  war  and 
peace,  tliough  this  measure  seems  to  have  been  contrary 
to  the  commands  of  his  sovereign.  And  this  conduct 
proved  the  fruitful  source  of  vexation  and  expence  to 
the  English,  who  seldom  forsee  and  prevent  Avhat  gi\'es 
them  a  fine  opportunity  to  display  to  the  world  the 
extent  of  their  braver}-  and  wealth  to  regain.  The  Five 
10 


146  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

Nations  sent  immediate  notice  to  Fletcher  of  what  had 
happened,  of  Avhat  they  could  not  frustrate :  And  they 
demanded  his  promised  aid.  They  desired  him  at  the 
same  time  to  inform  New  England  that  many  of  the 
Eastern  Indians  being  then  in  Canada  this  opportunity 
should  not  be  lost  to  destroy  those  who  remained  at 
home.  In  return  he  chid  his  friends  for  allowing  the 
French  to  take  possession  of  what  they  had  undertaken 
to  defend.  He  endeavoured  to  convince  them  of  the 
impossibility  of  dispossessing  the  French  from  a  strong 
post,  situated  upwards  of  four  hundred  miles  from  the 
inhabited  frontiers  by  an  army  which  must  march 
through  the  intervenient  desert,  without  roads,  com- 
munications or  provisions.  He  advised  them  to  invest 
the  garrison  and  cut  off  its  supplies.  And  he  condoled 
them  on  their  misfortunes  by  giving  a  present  of  unusual 
value  and  use.  But  all  their  exertions  ]3roved  vain : 
The  persevering  vigour  of  the  French  long  retained 
what  their  superior  address  had  thus  acquired.®^  Im- 
pressed Avith  a  sense  of  the  present  danger  the  assembly 
enabled  the  Governor  to  recruit  the  companies  on  the 
English  Establishment  and  to  raise  a  few  additional 
soldiers  "  for  securing  the  frontiers  of  the  province."  ^* 
Agents  were  sent  to  England  in  the  end  of  the  year 
1695  to  ask  for  effectual  aid.  While  the  French  were 
thus  pushing  their  warlike  settlements  southward,  and 
paving  a  way  for  future  incursions  on  the  more  southern 
colonies,  Virginia  and  Maryland  solicited  their  sove- 
reign to  be  exempted  from  the  burden  of  future  quotas  to 
New  York,  because  they  were  actuated  by  the  supposed 
pressiu-es  of  the  present  moment.^^ 

Count  Frontenac  having  gained  his  first  object  with 
regard  to  the  plans  which  he  meditated  for  closing  at 
once  the  war  that  had  so  long  drenched  Canada  in 
blood,  prepared  for  an  unusual  enterprize.  In  July 
1696,  that  nobleman  in  the  seventy-fourth  year  of  his 
age,  marched  at  the  head  of  the  whole  regular  troops, 
the  Canadian  militia  and  his  Indian  allies  against  the 
Country  of  the  Five  Nations,  which  was  defended  by 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  147 

almost  impervious  morasses  and  forests.  Having  as- 
cended the  river  St.  Lawrence  he  crossed  Lake  Ontario, 
and  at  length  entered  the  wilderness,  that  sheltered  the 
people  whose  destruction  he  designed,  by  the  stream  of 
Oswego.  The  Onondagas  alone  gave  him  a  defiance 
according  to  their  manner.  They  placed  their  women 
and  children  in  a  place  of  safety.  And  they  resolved 
to  defend  their  country  with  that  undaunted  spirit  which 
they  had  so  often  shewn  on  the  most  trying  emergencies. 
But,  being  informed  by  Indian  deserters,  that  their  ex- 
asperated enemies  were  more  numerous  than  the  leaves 
on  the  trees,  that  they  brought  with  them  uncommon 
machines,  which  were  described  as  spreading  fire,  and 
bullets,  and  death  at  a  prodigious  distance,  they  retired ; 
leaving  their  village  in  flames.  Count  Frontenac 
m.arched  up  in  battle  array  to  the  miserable  remains  of 
what  the  fire  had  spared  :  And  he  destroyed  the  scanty 
crops  of  a  people  who  despise  tillage  as  unworthy  of 
them.  Here  was  found  only  one  Sachem,  who  had 
survived  almost  a  century  of  years,  who  chose  that  time 
to  die :  Thinking  life  no  more  worthy  of  his  care,  since 
he  could  no  longer  contribute  to  the  defence  of  his 
countr}'  by  his  arm  or  his  counsels.  He  expired  whh 
a  resolution  characteristic  of  his  nation  amid  torments, 
wdiich  none  but  the  American  Indian  can  inflict  or  suf 
fer :  Giving  warning  to  his  tormentors  to  prepare  for 
that  vengeance  which  his  numerous  progeny  would 
certainly  take.  The  want  of  provisions  which  could  not 
be  procured  in  a  desert  obliged  that  general  to  retire 
with  precipitation,  without  effecting  all  that  was  intend- 
ed. Far  from  dispirited  by  losses  which  could  easily 
be  repaired  the  Onondagas  hung  on  his  rear  and  found 
opportunities  enow  to  revenge  their  late  disgrace.  Tlie 
Five  Nations  suffered  little  fi-om  this  overbearing  irrup- 
tion when  compared  with  the  distresses  of  their  invaders. 
The  harvest  failed  in  Canada,  because  the  Husbandmen 
were  employed  either  in  this  expedition  or  in  guarding 
its  borders  in  the  absence  of  the  army  ;  and  one  of  those 
famines  ensued,  which  had   so  often   depopulated  that 


148  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

colony. ^^  When  the  inhabitants  of  New  York  heard  of 
the  approach  of  the  French  they  were  seized  with  a 
consternation,  not  in  proportion  to  their  real  danger,  but 
to  what  they  imagined  they  should  feel  and  suifer  in 
case  of  an  actual  invasion.  In  this  extremity  Fletcher 
repeatedly  demanded  the  appointed  quotas  of  the  neigh- 
bouring colonies :  But  as  usual  without  success,  because 
they  felt  only  for  themselves.  And  he  was  now  left  to 
defend  his  province  with  the  four  standing  companies, 
maintained  by  England  at  a  considerable  expence.  He 
no  sooner  heard  of  the  loss  sustained  by  the  confederated 
tribes,  than  he  determined  to  alleviate  misfortunes  which 
he  could  not  prevent,  since  he  could  not  give  them  ef- 
fectual protection.  And  enabled  by  the  liberal  grants 
of  the  Assembly  he  supplied  them  with  corn  during  the 
ensuing  year.  The  Quakers  of  Pennsylvania,  either 
alarmed  when  they  heard  of  the  retreat  of  the  Indians 
southward  along  the  river  Susquehannah,  or  pitying 
their  misfortunes,  sent  two  hundred  pounds  to  Fletcher 
to  purchase  them  raiment  and  food.®''  But  we  shall  find 
that  these  attentions  did  not  eradicate  the  impression 
which  late  events  had  made  on  the  firmest  minds,  be- 
cause they  as  much  feared  the  vigour  of  their  enemies 
as  they  despised  the  weakness  of  their  friends. 

In  the  meantime  the  Agents  of  New  York  represent- 
ed to  the  ministers  of  England  the  deplorable  imbecility 
of  this  province,  and  the  danger  of  losing  for  ever  the 
attachment  of  the  Five  Nations  with  the  security  which 
this  brought  with  it.  They  proposed  as  the  surest 
means  to  protect  both  from  the  incursions  of  the  common 
enemy  to  dispossess  the  French  of  Canada  and  to  plant 
there  an  English  colony ;  to  erect  fortifications  on  Lake 
Ontario  ;  and  to  strengthen  the  frontiers  with  a  thousand 
regular  troops.  But  in  their  solicitude  for  their  province 
they  never  reflected  how  much  England  had  been  debi- 
litated by  marking  exertions  beyond  her  strength,  and 
how  unable  she  was  to  engage  in  fresh  projects  when 
she  knew  from  recent  experience  how  little  the  Colonies 
interested  themselves  in  a  contest  that  had  their  rio;hts 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  149 

as  well  as  her  own  for  its  object.  Yet  she  gave  them  a 
new  instance  of"  her  parental  care.  More  liberal  presents 
were  sent  to  her  Indian  allies  whom  Fletcher  was  order- 
ed to  supply  with  necessary  anmiunition  during  the 
war ;  military  stores  were  sent  to  the  colonies,  that  they 
might  be  enabled  to  defend  themselves :  An  Engineer 
was  ordered  to  repair  their  fortifications :  And  as  the 
provinces  had  not  complied  with  the  royal  requisition 
of  quotas  for  the  defence  of  New  York,  the  safety  of 
which  involved  the  fate  of  the  whole,  fresh  instances 
were  made  with  greater  earnestness.^^ 

While  these  salutary  measures  were  pursued  in  order 
to  extricate  New  York  from  her  present  embarrassments 
a  desultory  war  continued  on  the  frontiers,  the  events 
of  which  deserve  not  to  be  now  remembered,  because 
they  were  then  of  little  consequence.  But  the  Five 
Nations  wished  for  peace.  They  sensibly  felt  the  in- 
equality of  their  burdens ;  they  perceived  the  inability 
of  the  English  to  protect  them,  because  they  did  not 
cooperate  with  each  other;  they  even  doubted  from 
what  they  had  seen  whether  the  war  continued  between 
France  and  England :  Yet  with  a  laudable  attachment 
to  treaties,  which  the  most  polished  of  nations  ought  to 
imitate,  they  proposed  to  continue  the  contest,  provided 
Canada  was  attacked  by  sea.  But  no  promises  were 
made  by  the  governor,  because  he  knew  that  they  would 
little  regard  what  he  had  been  hitherto  unable  to  per- 
form.^*^  The  people  on  the  borders  were  extremely 
alarmed  when  they  heard  of  a  fresh  irruption  of  the 
Canadians,  because  they  dreaded  equally  the  depreda- 
tions of  friends  and  foes:  And  nothing  prevented  a 
dereliction  of  the  country,  but  the  animated  conduct  of 
Fletcher,  who  reinforced  the  frontiers,  encouraged  the 
Indians,  and  placed  himself  in  Albany  during  the 
winter  of  1696-7.  Yet  he  was  soon  after  recalled  partly 
owing  to  complaints  against  him,  but  more  with  design 
to  make  room  for  a  new  plan  of  union  of  the  Northern 
Colonies,  on  which  the  safety  of  the  whole  was  supposed 
to  depend. 


150  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

Notwithstanding  every  inconvenience  of  the  war,  the 
City  of  New  York  increased  from  various  causes  in 
commerce,  in  wealth,  and  in  populousness.  The  taxes, 
which  had  been  levied  to  a  greater  extent  than  it  had 
ever  known  betbre,  were  imposed  with  equity  and  col- 
lected with  moderation ;  which  by  adding  to  the  general 
circulation  promoted  the  general  industry.  The  war 
had  put  in  motion  a  multitude  of  privateers  and  pirates, 
to  which  that  city  afforded  an  asylum  and  which  it 
supplied  with  provisions ;  exchanging  these  for  gold  and 
other  rich  commodities,  the  plunder  of  the  East.  And 
it  found  the  greatest  advantage  in  carrying  on  an  illegal 
traffic  of  great  extent  which  supplied  the  demands  of  the 
province;  as  those  officers,  whose  duty  required  them 
to  execute  the  acts  of  navigation,  turned  their  eyes  from 
irregularities  that  were  criminal  in  proportion  as  the 
commerce  of  England  had  been  diminished  by  a  war, 
which  was  carried  on  for  the  benefit  of  all. 

When  the  intrigues  of  William  Penn  since  the, 
Revolution  were  in  the  meantime  remembered,  when 
his  neglectful  absence  from  his  province  and  its  exposed 
state  were  considered,  it  was  resolved  to  place  it  under 
the  care  of  Fletcher.  In  October  1692,  he  was  invested 
with  the  same  powers  of  Government  over  Pennsjdvania 
as  had  been  given  him  over  New  York.^'^  The  lords  of 
the  Committee  of  Colonies  having  determined  on  the 
rectitude  of  this  policy,  the  Crown  Lawyers,  whose 
official  advice  was  asked,  gave  a  sanction  to  the  legality 
of  it.  But  neither  seem  to  have  reflected,  that  they 
were  depriving  English  subjects  of  Chartered  rights,  by 
supposing  facts  to  exist,  which  the  law  of  England  re- 
quired, should  have  been  previously  affirmed  by  a 
verdict  of  their  peers.  Far  from  consenting  to  measures 
which  deprived  him  of  power,  Penn  gave  warning  to 
Fletcher  to  beware  how  he  trampled  on  the  privileges 
of  an  Englishman  by  executing  a  commission  which  he 
deemed  illegal :  ^^  And  he  gave  instructions  to  his  friends 
in  Pennsylvania  how  to  oppose  his  authority  by  under- 
mining the  governor's  power. ^^ 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  151 

Fletcher  no  sooner  received  these  additional  powers 
than  he  repaired  to  Philadelphia  to  execute  the  trust 
reposed  in  him.  In  April  1G93  he  here  published  his 
commission  and  assumed  the  government  without  op- 
jjosition,  because  the  Quakers  obstruct  by  intrigue  what 
others  oppose  by  force.  He  nominated  ]\iarkham, 
formerly  secretary  of  Penn  and  President  of  the  prov- 
ince, Lieutenant-governor.  He  appointed  eight  Coun- 
sellors and  other  otiicers.  And  he  continued  the  Courts 
of  justice  on  the  former  plan.  Considering  justly  that 
his  commission  and  instructions  had  superseded  as  well 
the  charter  as  the  frame  of  government  that  had  engaged 
the  affection  of  the  Emigrants,  he  resolved  to  disregard 
both  in  the  manner  of  calling  an  Assembly,  since  he 
was  instructed  to  follow  in  all  things  the  example  of 
New  York.  Much  depended  on  the  rectitude  of  this 
measure,  because  the  validity  of  the  laws  was  to  result 
from  it.  Yet  there  were  not  wanting  persons  who, 
instructed  by  Penn  and  deploring  the  loss  of  their  own 
consequence  in  the  late  change,  opposed  the  proceedings 
of  the  Governor,  though  in  the  peaceful  manner  that 
their  peculiar  religion  prescribes.  Seven  members  of 
the  late  Provincial  Council  on  behalf  of  the  freemen: 
Desiring  "  that  no  other  method  may  be  used  in  calling 
the  legislative  power  than  the  received  law  of  tlie  Prov- 
ince does  provide."  But  no  answer  was  given,  because 
the  Governor  and  Council  agreed  "that  it  cannot  be 
consistent  with  the  powers  of  the  Commission  to  regard 
an  address  which  strikes  at  the  foundation  of  their 
authority."  Yet  the  ancient  form  was  in  a  great  meas- 
ure changed.  When  the  Assembly  at  length  convened 
six  members  only  appeared  who  without  scruple  took 
the  oaths  which  the  law  had  provided  for  the  security 
of  the  State.  The  others  Avere  allowed  to  subscribe  the 
declaration  of  fidelity,  in  pursuance  of  the  rojal  instruc- 
tions ;  yet  not  till  they  entered  on  their  journal,  that 
what  was  then  permitted  was  merely  an  act  of  grace, 
which  should  not  be  construed  into  a  pretension  of 
right.      From  these    notices  we   may  determine   with 


152  THE    CONTINUATION   OF 

regard  to  the  religious  tenets  of  the  members ;  with  regard 
to  that  policy  which  sacrificed  so  imich  to  warfare,  yet 
admitted  into  the  legislature  men  who  opposed  the  most 
necessary  violence  as  sinful.  The  Delegates  now  atten- 
tively practised  the  lessons  of  opposition  that  the  Pro- 
prietary had  taught  them.^^  They  opened  their  delibera- 
tions ^vith  a  resolve ;  "  that  the  laws  of  the  province  that 
were  in  practice  before  the  arrival  of  the  present  gov- 
ernor are  still  in  force."  Never  advertino;  durino-  tlieir 
zeal,  that  the  principle  of  their  resolution  contained  a 
strong  assertion  not  only  of  the  illegality  of  the  present 
government,  but  of  the  consequent  irregularity  of  their 
own  proceedings.  Having  insinuated  that  their  present 
change  arose  alone  from  the  absence  of  the  Proprietary, 
the  Governor  laid  before  them  the  motives  recited  in 
his  commission,  and  with  the  bluntness  of  a  soldier 
assured  them:  "That  the  constitution  of  their  majestys 
government  and  that  of  Mr.  Pen  are  in  direct  opposi- 
tion to  each  other  ;  and  if  you  tenaciously  stickle  for  his, 
it  is  a  demonstration  that  you  decline  the  other."  It 
was  impossible  to  answer  this  perplexing  argument. 
And  while  they  insisted,  "  that  the  reasons  assigned  for 
superseding  the  Proprietary  government  were  founded 
in  misrepresentation,'"'  they  admitted  Fletcher  to  be  their 
lawful  governor,  "  saving  to  themselves  and  those 
they  represented  the  privileges  of  both."  Owing  in 
some  measure  to  the  novelty  of  the  scene,  but  more 
because  neither  of  the  disputants  did  justice  to  each 
other,  the  session  passed  away  in  continual  contention. 
After  some  altercations  he  confirmed  during  the  King's 
pleasure  a  long  list  of  laws.  And  they  partly  in  return, 
but  more  from  the  dread  of  "  an  annexation  to  New 
York"  with  which  they  were  menaced,  gave  a  small 
supply  for  the  support  of  the  provincial  establishment.''* 
There  were  many  however  of  the  well  affected  inhabit- 
ants of  Philadelphia,  who  declared  themselves  sensible 
of  the  royal  care  in  taking  them  under  his  immediate 
government  and  avowed  themselves  ready  to  uphold  it : 
But  these  men  perceived  not  the  danger  to  real  liberty 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  153 

from  change  wlien  not  strictly  legal.  In  the  height  of 
his  chagrin  Fletcher  informed  the  Secretary  of  State ; 
That  no  assistance  was  to  be  expected  from  the  Quakers, 
who  little  regarded  the  Queen  s  mandatory  letter,  who 
had  rather  die  than  resist  with  carnal  weapons,  and 
who,  while  they  have  neither  arms  nor  ammunition, 
will  not  suffer  those  few  to  be  trained  that  shew  an 
inclination.  He  departed  in  June  1693:  Giving  up 
the  reins  of  the  Pensylvanian  government  to  Markham, 
a  man  needy  and  profligate,  but  of  great  experience, 
since  he  had  been  the  first  ruler.  It  did  not  escape  the 
sagacity  of  Fletcher,  that  the  policy  to  which  the  rights 
of  Pen  and  the  privileges  of  the  people  were  unjustly 
sacrificed,  had  now  wholly  failed.  Far  from  adding 
strength  to  the  feebleness  of  New  York  his  necessary 
absence  had  only  increased  her  embarrassments.  He 
gave  notice  to  the  ministers  of  England,  that  the  trust 
conferred  on  him  "was  merely  a  trouble"  without  an- 
swering any  of  the  important  jjurposes  of  union  and 
energy.  And  he  advised  a  complete  annexation  of 
Pensylvania,  of  the  Jerseys,  of  Connecticut,  to  New 
York,  as  the  only  measure  that  could  save  the  last  from 
the  possession  of  France.'*^ 

Markham  governed  Pensylvania  with  the  weakness 
of  dependent  authority.  He  called  an  Assembh'  in  the 
beginning  of  the  year  1694.  But  a  sudden  prorogation, 
which  he  made  by  order  of  his  superior  prevented  a 
redress  of  those  grievances  which  naturally  arose  from 
the  confusion  of  the  ancient  Constitution  and  the  inno- 
vation of  the  new.  Yet  with  the  spirit  of  injured  free- 
men they  transmitted  a  remonstrance  to  Fletcher.  Com- 
plaining of  the  late  prorogation,  and  insisting  among 
other  objects  of  grievance  which  evinces  the  extent  of 
their  jealousy,  that  the  supplies  granted  by  the  last 
Assembly  should  be  justty  applied  and  accounted  for  to 
the  present.  The  Governor  hastened  from  the  confer- 
ences held  with  the  Five  Nations  in  May  1694,  to  meet 
the  Assembly  in  person.  He  apologized  to  that  body, 
by  urging  the  necessity  of  meeting  the  Tribes,  wdio  had 


154  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

been  endeavouring  to  make  a  peace  with  France,  which 
all  wise  men  considered  as  equivalent  to  a  confederacy 
against  the  English.  He  laid  before  the  Delegates  the 
proceedings  at  the  late  conference.  He  represented  to 
them  the  deplorable  state  of  the  frontiers  of  New  York, 
which  had  been  in  some  measure  abandoned,  owing  to 
the  want  of  the  aid  of  neighbors  rather  than  to  the  im- 
pression of  the  enemy.  While  he  praised  East-Jersey 
tor  sending  a  quota  of  aid,  he  urged  in  prophetic  lan- 
guage, that  the  danger  of  Pensylvania  was  not  the 
less  real  because  it  was  now  distant,  but  if  from  their 
abhorrence  of  war  they  would  not  levy  money  for  the 
general  defence  they  ought  at  least  to  enable  him  to  feed 
the  hungry  and  to  clothe  the  naked.  And  he  assured 
them  of  his  readiness  to  concur  in  anything  that  might 
be  useful  to  the  province.  Yet  the  session  passed  away 
rather  in  altercation  than  in  mutual  endeavours  to  pro- 
mote the  real  interest  of  the  colony.  The  deputies 
indeed  passed  a  bill  for  raising  a  supply :  But  having 
appropriated  the  money  and  appointed  Collectors,  the 
Governor  informed  them  of  his  positive  instructions  to 
consent  to  no  money  bill,  wherein  the  tax  was  not 
granted  to  the  King  for  the  uses  of  the  state,  according 
to  Parliamentary  Custom.  It  was  apparent,  that  no 
money  could  ever  be  raised,  while  the  acceptance  of  the 
one  rendered  him  unworthy  of  future  trust,  and  the 
others  insisted  on  their  own  terms,  because  the  interest 
of  their  constituents  and  their  own  consequence  were 
equally  involved.  While  this  fruitful  source  of  dis- 
agreement continued  he  insisted  in  vain  for  an  answer 
to  the  Queens  requisition  of  aid  for  New  York.  The 
Deleoates  in  return  sent  him  a  remonstrance  with  re- 
gard  to  the  state  of  the  province  and  their  own  privileges. 
And  a  fruitless  session  was  soon  after  closed  by  a  dis- 
solution, which  at  all  times  has  confirmed  the  resolution 
rather  than  convinced  the  judgment  or  conciliated  the 
affections  of  popular  assemblies.  The  same  subject  was 
renewed  at  a  subsequent  meeting,  when  similar  alterca- 
tions ensued  with  the  same  success.''^     Representatives 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  155 

who  withhold  money  from  their  rulers  are  generally 
rewarded  with  the  applause  of  the  governed. 

Meanwhile  William  Pen,  who  had  secretly  directed 
the  proceedhigs  of  the  Delegates,  successfully  exerted 
his  usual  address  to  reconcile  himself  to  his  new  sove- 
reigns, whom  he  had  injured  and  therefore  hated.  In 
July  1694,  he  represented  with  his  accustomed  art  the 
great  prejudice  that  had  ensued  by  the  separation  of  the 
government  from  the  soil :  And  he  prayed  to  be  restored 
to  his  former  privileges.  The  CroAvn  Lawyers  Ward 
and  Trevor  gave  it  as  their  official  opinion,  "that  the 
charter  of  Charles  2d  had  granted  to  the  Proprietary 
the  right  of  government,  civil  and  military,  but  subject 
to  the  general  sovereignty  of  the  king  over  the  province 
and  inhabitants."^^  Having  gained  this  important 
declaration  in  his  favour,  he  assured  the  Lords  of  the 
Committee  of  Colonies,  that  he  was  willing  to  subscribe 
the  declaration  of  fidelity  to  their  majesty s.  With  a 
saving  of  his  principle,  that  he  would  speedily  return  to 
Pensylvania  and  provide  for  its  safety,  that  he  would 
transmit  in  the  meantime  to  the  assembly  such  orders 
as  should  be  given  for  the  general  defence,  which  he 
doubted  not  they  would  dutifully  obey,  but  if  they  did 
not,  he  would  submit  the  military  affairs  to  the  king's 
pleasure.  Pelying  on  these  solemn  promises  the  Com- 
mittee recommended  his  restoration.  And  in  August 
1694  the  commission  of  Fletcher  was  revoked,  which 
should  have  been  never  granted ;  because  the  expected 
good  could  not  balance  the  certain  evil  of  infringing  at 
once  the  rights  of  Pen  and  the  privileges  of  the  Pen- 
sylvanians.  The  Queen  wrote  a  second  mandatory 
letter;  which,  remarking  his  petition  and  restoration 
and  her  appointment  of  the  quota  of  aid,  required  his 
compliance  with  the  requisition  of  the  governor  of  New 
York,^^  Unable  to  return  to  Pensjlvania,  or  to  make 
a  final  settlement  of  its  affairs,  the  Proprietary  in  the 
subsequent  November  empowered  Markham  to  rule  his 
province  in  his  absence,  according  to  loiown  usages  and 
laws.     And  he  gave  him  two  assistants,  who  however 


156  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

declined  to  act,  by  whose  advice  he  was  directed  to 
transact  the  public  business.  ^^  Thus  w^as  restored  the 
government  of  Pensylvania  to  its  founder :  Thus  were 
the  people  reinstated  in  their  ancient  privileges,  after  a 
species  of  usurpation,  since  the  late  administration  had 
been  established  contrary  to  law.  But  we  shall  find, 
that  Pen  either  possessed  not  the  power,  or  wanted  the 
inclination  to  perform  stipulations  on  his  part,  which 
he  deemed  perhaps  improperly  asked;  because  rights 
unjustly  taken  away  ought  to  be  returned  without  con- 
sideration. 

Nevertheless  Pensylvania  remained  for  some  time 
in  that  political  situation  in  \^^hich  Fletcher  had  left  it. 
Under  Markham  it  continued  quiet  and  therefore  un- 
important. An  Assembly  was  at  length  convened  iu 
the  year  1696  under  the  irregular  form  which  the  change 
of  1693  had  introduced.  The  Deputy  Governor  recom- 
mended to  its  attention  the  affairs  of  New  York  and 
the  distresses  of  the  friendly  Indians,  the  Queens  requi- 
sitions and  the  promises  of  the  Proprietary  before  men- 
tioned. The  informality  of  the  present  convention  did 
not  escape  the  penetration  of  the  Burgesses.  Yet  they 
unanimously  declared  their  willingness  to  perform  their 
duty  with  regard  to  these  recommendations,  "  if  the 
Governor  would  be  pleased  to  settle  them  in  their  former 
constitution.'"  As  men  are  never  at  a  loss  for  expedients 
when  they  are  really  disposed  to  comply  a  Committee 
of  the  Council  met  one  of  the  Delegates  "  to  consider 
how  to  promote  that  favourite  object " :  A  bill  for  this 
purpose  and  one  for  raising  money  were  at  the  same 
time  prepared  and  passed.  For  the  support  of  the 
provincial  administration  and  for  the  relief  of  the  dis- 
tressed Indians,  the  scanty  sum  of  three  hundred  pounds 
was  granted.  The  present  "  act  of  settlement "  did  not 
restore  the  old  but  introduced  a  new  constitution.  Yet 
as  its  existence  proved  of  very  short  duration,  its  regula- 
tions deserve  not  to  be  now  recollected.  It  saved  former 
rights  whether  derived  from  the  charter  or  laws.  And 
with  an  absurdity  proceeding  from  the  pride  of  men  it 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  157 

provided;  "that  no  part  of  it  should  be  altered  without 
the  consent  of  the  Governor  and  six  j^arts  in  seven  of 
the  freemen  in  Assembly  met":  ^^  As  if  the  legislative 
power  can  prohibit  its  successors  fi-om  abrogating  what 
the  legislature  has  formerly  enacted.  Here  we  disco^^er 
the  reason  why  popular  assemblies  contend  with  so 
much  energy  for  the  sole  disposal  of  money :  It  is  an 
argument  everywhere  so  absolutely  decisive. 

An  assembly  convened  in  the  subsequent  year  in 
conformity  to  the  late  act  of  settlement.  The  regulations 
beforementioned  were  instantly  confirmed,  because  their 
validity  had  been  doubted.  Before  the  Delegates  was 
laid  a  fi^esh  requisition  of  aid  by  the  Governor  of  New 
York ;  but  they  refused  to  grant  the  promised  quota : 
Urging' in  excuse,  the  infancy,  the  poverty,  the  incum- 
bered state  of  the  colony.  ^"^  Pensylvania  found  cause 
in  after  times  to  regret,  that  her  representatives  found 
pretences  to  disregard  equally  the  requisitions  of  the 
Queen  and  the  assurances  of  the  Proprietary.  Not- 
withstanding the  various  changes  she  had  undergone  no 
country  was  ever  blessed  with  a  more  rapid  increase  of 
industry  and  populousness,  commerce  and  wealth  than 
this  province  from  the  Revolution  to  the  present  period. 
Her  government  gave  the  same  protection  to  the  wealthy 
emigrant  and  to  the  needy  fugitive;  her  laws  promoted 
diligence,  as  a  virtue  of  the  greatest  importance  to  an 
infant  state;  she  extended  her  traffic  whithersoever 
interest  directed  the  navigator,  as  she  disregarded  the 
arts  of  navigation:  And  the  governor  and  inferior 
magistrates  countenanced  and  even  protected  pirates,  as 
men  who  augmented  her  wealth  without  injuring  her 
morals.  The  adjacent  provinces,  envying  perhaps  her 
prosperity  gave  notice  to  the  ministers  of  England  of  all 
tliese  disorders ;  and  begged  for  an  adequate  remedy 
with  the  same  zeal,  as  if  a  check  given  to  the  irregulari- 
ties of  one  colony  could  alone  promote  the  commercial 
ardour  of  another."^ 

During  the  various  innovations  in  Pensylvania, 
and   her  rapid  advance   to   greatness,  measures   were 


158  THE    CONTIlSrUATION    OF 

adopted  to  procure  for  Carolina,  long  depressed  by 
anarchy,  a  change  equally  desirable.  When  the  Pro- 
prietaries reflected  on  the  continued  distractions  of  this 
turbulent  colony  and  weighed  the  salutary  advice  that 
had  been  given  them  by  the  governor  and  Deputies, 
they  did  not  hesitate  to  comply  with  the  recommenda- 
tion of  sending  thither  one  of  their  own  body  as  chief 
magistrate.  At  a  full  meeting  of  the  Proprietors  held 
in  June  1694,  in  order  to  consider  of  the  state  of  the 
country,  John  Archdale,  a  quaker,  whose  prudence 
was  equal  to  his  great  experience  in  colonial  affairs,  was 
appointed  governor  general  of  both  the  Carolinas.  He 
was  intrusted  with  larger  powers  than  any  of  his  pre- 
decessors, because  "the  present  exigency  requires  it  and 
he  is  in  the  nature  of  a  Proprietor."  He  was  instructed 
to  pursue  former  orders  at  the  same  time  that  he  studied 
in  what  manner  to  promote  the  improven;ent  of  the 
Colonies;  to  review  their  constitutions  and  to  recommend 
to  the  Assembly  such  alterations  as  he  might  think  for 
the  general  interests.  And  he  was  introduced  by  the 
Proprietors  to  their  Deputies  as  a  person  who  ardently 
desired  to  establish  a  settlement  of  affairs,  satisfactory 
and  permanent.  Nevertheless  his  powers  seem  not  to 
have  been  equal  to  his  own  opinion  of  the  extent  of  his 
business.  Having  arrived  in  Virginia  in  June  1695 
he  wrote  thence  to  his  constituents  for  authority  "to 
appoint  new  Deputies,  to  grant  an  abatement  of  the 
quit  rents  in  arrear,  to  dispose  of  unlocated  lands  on 
reasonable  terms."  All  these  were  readily  granted, 
because  they  appeared  to  be  absolutely  necessary.  He 
was  received  in  August  1695,  with  universal  acclama- 
tions, because  the  humility  of  his  appearance  offended 
no  ones  pride,  punishment  was  dreaded  by  none,  much 
was  expected  from  his  powers.  And  his  endeavours 
seem  to  have  proved  successful.  The  equanimity  of  his 
conduct  reconciled  the  various  factions  to  each  other ;  his 
acknowledged  integrity  prevented  every  suspicion  of 
sinister  designs ;  and  his  address  procured  a  reformation 
of  most  of  the  evils  which  disorders  of  long  continuance 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  159 

had  introduced.  The  Assembly,  which  he  not  long 
after  summoned,  and  which  the  mildness  of  his  manners 
extremely  softened,  zealously  promoted  his  views,  be- 
cause the  concessions  before  mentioned  gratified  the 
members.  They  passed  an  act  for  the  redress  of  sup- 
posed grievances,  for  the  settlement  of  the  quit  rents 
and  other  manorial  rights,  that  for  so  many  years  had 
created  the  greatest  dissentions.  And  they  transmitted 
an  address  of  gratitude  to  the  Proprietaries  for  a  liberal- 
ity of  sentiment  and  action,  which,  they  had  few  op- 
portunities of  admiring  in  each  other.  To  the  Indian 
tribes,  both  foreign  and  domestic,  he  did  that  justice 
which  they  had  seldom  -experienced  before :  And  the 
Colonists  felt  the  benefit  of  this  laudable  policy,  that 
they  have  at  all  times  but  too  seldom  practised.  Yet 
this  man's  morality  was  somewhat  corrupted  by  the 
profligacy  of  the  people  and  the  times :  He  encouraged 
an  illicit  commerce,  so  repugnant  to  the  moral  sense ; 
he  countenanced  piracy,  so  contrary  to  every  system  of 
laws.  North  Carolina  remained  during  these  transac- 
tions in  the  South  almost  without  any  perceivable  gov- 
(jrnment,  the  general  receptacle  of  the  fugitive,  the 
smuggler  and  the  pirate.  At  the  expiration  of  two 
years  Archdale  delivered  the  Carolinas,  which  now  were 
blessed  with  an  unusual  state  of  tranquillity,  to  the  care 
of  Blake ;  having  justly  acquired  the  honour  of  giving 
equal  satisfaction  to  his  employers  and  to  the  people, 
whose  happiness  he  had  thus  promoted.  Meantime 
various  complaints  were  made  to  the  ministers  of  Eng- 
land against  these  provinces,  for  seducing  the  inhabitants 
of  other  colonies ;  for  trafficking  contrary  to  law ;  for 
receiving  pirates.  And  they  wrote  to  the  Proprietaries 
in  terms  which  evinced  what  impression  these  accusations 
had  made,  "to  take  extraordinary  care  to  discourage 
such  things  hereafter,  so  as  to  prevent  similar  reflections 
in  future."  ''^ 

At  no  period  of  the  English  annals  had  the  national 
commerce  flourished  more  luxuriantly  than  during  the 
reigns  of  Charles  2d  and  his  successor:  At  no  period  of 


160  THE    CONTINUATION    OV 

them  had  it  ever  declined  with  so  much  rapidity  as  during 
the  war  of  the  Revolution.  The  exertions,  that  England 
made  during  this  contention,  Avhich  had  her  independ- 
ence and  freedom  for  its  end,  were  greater  than  she  had 
ever  made  before,  and  beyond  her  abilities  even  when 
aided  by  the  one  half  of  Europe.  During  the  first  years 
of  this  momentous  contest  the  merchants  were  deprived 
of  their  sailors  by  the  advice  of  the  Commons,  in  order 
to  man  the  fleet  that  was  to  repel  the  invasion  of  the 
late  king  aided  by  France:  And  their  inadequate 
Convoys  were  often  delayed,  sometimes  refused,  because 
the  French  had  worsted  the  fleet  of  England  in  several 
rencounters,  on  her  own  coasts.  The  great  demand  for 
money  and  the  debasement  of  the  coin  had  checked 
universal  circulation,  and  the  unexampled  taxes  were 
consequently  less  productive  at  the  same  time  that  they 
ruined  the  industrious  classes.  The  instability  of  the 
new  government,  and  the  disaffection  of  many  of  the 
great  had  a  manifest  influence  on  the  national  manufac- 
tures, because  the  minds  of  the  people  were  often  alarm- 
ed. Even  after  the  decisive  victory  of  La  Hogue, 
neither  was  the  trade  of  the  conqueror  so  fully  protected 
nor  that  of  the  conquered  so  completely  ruined  as  might 
have  been  expected  from  the  acknowledged  naval  supe- 
riority of  the  former.  Ignorance,  cabal,  and  treachery 
directed  the  divided  councils  of  William.  The  English 
merchants,  whose  comj^laints  are  generally  of  all  others 
the  most  attended  to,  tilled  the  nation  with  accounts  of 
their  losses  as  considerable  as  they  were  well  founded. 
In  these  calamities  the  colonial  commerce  fully  partook, 
because  it  was  intimately  connected  with  that  of  the 
parent  state.  The  conduct  of  the  ministers  was  inveighed 
against  not  only  as  a  criminal  neglect  of  the  nation,  but 
as  a  treacherous  sacrifice  of  her  trade  at  the  shrine  of 
foreign  interests.  All  these  causes  contributed  to  intro- 
duce this  important  subject  into  Parliament  during  the 
session  of  1695-6.  And  a  motion  Avas  made  to  establish 
a  council  of  trade  by  an  act  of  the  legislature.  But 
while  one  party  opposed  a  measure  so  interesting  to  a 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  161 

commercial  kingdom,  as  infi-inging  the  prerogative  of 
the  King,  and  thereby  changing  the  nature  of  the  Con- 
stitution, and  the  other  supported  it,  because  favourable 
to  liberty  and  the  rights  of  the  subject,  the  discovery  of 
a  conspiracy  against  the  royal  person  closed  the  debate 
and  turned  the  attention  of  every  one  to  an  object  more 
alarming/*^^  In  order  to  prevent  the  revival  of  a  similar 
motion  that  monarch  not  long  after  signified  his  inten- 
tion to  gratify  the  wishes  of  his  people  by  the  appoint- 
ment of  Commissioners,  whose  deliberations  should  have 
the  advantage  of  the  Colonies  and  of  Commerce  for  their 
chief  object/''^ 

From  the  Restoration  to  the  present  period  the 
superintendence  of  these  distant  settlements  and  the 
mercantile  interests  of  England  had  been  placed  in 
various  committees  of  the  privy -council,  though  differ- 
ently modified  in  proportion  to  the  eventful  changes  of 
the  times.  May  1G96  is  the  memorable  epoch  of  the 
esta1)lishment  of  the  Board  of  trade  and  plantations  on 
its  present  footing.  A  commission  then  passed  the 
great  seal,  directed  to  the  great  officers  of  state  and  to 
other  persons  of  experience,  for  promoting  the  advantage 
of  commerce  foreign  and  domestic,  for  watching  over 
the  affairs  of  the  Colonies.  And  the  Commissioners 
proceeded  to  discharge  the  trust  reposed  in  them  with 
great  zeal  and  ability.  Various  were  the  projects  which 
they  received  and  considered  for  promoting  domestic 
industry,  for  urging  foreign  enterprize :  Much  time  and 
attention  did  they  employ  in  corresponding  with  the 
governors  and  other  officers  of  the  plantations  ;  in  perus- 
ing the  various  acts  of  different  assemblies,  which  were 
transmitted  for  the  royal  approbation ;  in  giving  energy 
to  the  laws  of  navigation,  that  it  was  found  so  difficult 
to  enforce.^"^  And  nothing  engaged  more  their  deliberate 
consideration  in  the  year  1G9G,  than  the  lamentable 
state  of  the  colonies,  which  had  suffered  equally  from 
the  imbecility  of  internal  divisions  and  the  pressures  of 
a  formidable  foe.  It  was  perceived  indeed,  "  that  there 
were  Englishmen  enow  not  only  to  defend  themselves  but 
11 


162  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

even  to  drive  their  enemies  from  the  northern  continent." 
But  the  provinces  were  so  separated  in  jurisdiction,  so 
disunited  by  adverse  interests  and  affections,  that  far 
from  ainioying  their  invaders  they  joined  in  no  common 
measure  for  the  defence  of  the  common  frontiers. 
Mutual  Union  had  been  recommended  by  Mary  and 
quotas  of  aid  appointed  by  her,  because  it  was  thought 
just,  "  that  they  should  employ  their  own  hands  and 
purses,  in  defence  of  their  o^vn  estates,  lives,  and  families." 
But  her  requests  were  listened  to  with  indifference,  as 
each  province  felt  only  for  itself,  disregarding  the  com- 
mon danger  as  unreal.  How  to  unite  and  to  bring  into 
action  the  strength  of  so  many  discordant  colonies, 
"while  England  spent  so  much  blood  and  treasure  in  so 
lasting  a  war,"  employed  the  deliberations  of  the  Board 
and  exercised  the  thoughts  of  wise  men.  Much  ought 
we  naturally  to  expect  from  the  wisdom  of  Locke,  from 
the  sagacity  of  Penn.  The  former  however,  aided  by 
the  experience  of  sensible  coadjutors,  could  only  propose 
the  introduction  of  a  military  despotism,  by  investing 
all  power,  legislative  and  executive,  in  a  Captain  General 
of  royal  appointment.  The  last  recommended  the 
establishment  of  a  democracy,  which  would  have  soon 
engrossed  all  authority  and  erected  independent  Empire. 
Neither  proposal  was  accepted ;  because  the  one  was 
tyrannous ;  the  other  was  unsafe.  When  surrounded 
with  difficulties  statesmen  often  find  relief  from  perfect 
inaction.  Yet  the  ministers  of  William  were  urged  to 
apply  a  speedy  remedy  to  those  inveterate  disorders 
with  the  anxiety  of  men  who  feared  it  might  come  too 
late  to  prevent  the  bad  consequences  that  England  and 
her  colonies  might  find  full  leisure  to  regret.  Let  us 
not  however  cast  hasty  blame  on  the  wisdom  of  that 
reign:  The  same  perplexing  embarrassments  have  de- 
scended mth  little  variation  to  the  present  times,  yet  no 
man  has  been  found  who  can  unravel  the  intricate  knot, 
by  making  the  advantages  of  union  and  the  interests  of 
freedom  coalesce. 


Chalmers's  political  a^jnals.  163 


AUTHOEITIES  and  NOTES. 


'  Andros's   correspondence  Yirg*  Ent,  5  v,  p.  223-40. — 

*  Laws  p.  1Y3-5.— '  lb.  177.  The  revenue  collected  for  the 
College  on  the  exportation  of  skins  under  the  act  before  men- 
tioned amounted  to  £251—0—  5  a  year.      Virg''  A.  p.  95.— 

*  Virg^  Ent.  5  v.  p.  244.—'  The  Stat,  of  the  10th  &  lltli  W"  3 
ch.  2L  S.  29  declared :  "  That  no  tobacco  shall  be  exported 
from  the  Colonies  otherwise  than  in  cask  or  chest:"  And  this 
law  and  the  practice  under  it  continued  imchanged  to  the 
present  times. — '  The  amount  of  the  warlike  stores  then  sent 
to  Virginia  was  £807.  4. 10.  Sf.  Virg*  Ent.  5  v.  p.  257 :  other 
stores  were  not  long  after  sent  amounting  to  £655.  12.  1.  Id. 
287.—'  Id.  p.  266-70.—'  Laws  p.  179.—'  Yirg"^  Ent.  5  v.  p. 
299-301. — '"  Id.  The  Governor  seems  to  have  been  the  only 
man  in  Virginia  who  approved  of  sending  the  appointed  quota 
of  aid  to  New  York.  The  sentiments  as  well  as  the  state  of 
that  most  ancient  dominion  will  appear  in  a  light  sufficiently 
striking  from  the  following  dispatch  of  Mr.  Secretary  Wormley, 
a  man  of  the  greatest  experience  in  its  affairs,  of  the  10  June 
1695  to  the  Committee  of  Council :  "  The  revenue  is  in  arrear 
and  not  sufficient  to  pay  contingent  charges  much  less  to  aid 
New  York ;  nor  is  there  any  probability  of  its  being  better 
during  the  war.  And  the  dependence  of  this  country  is  not 
so  much  upon  New  York  as  has  been  represented  to  require 
such  supplies ;  considering  how  great  a  loss  the  want  of  two 
hundred  mens  labour  in  this  colony  will  be  to  the  crown, 
besides  the  weakening  the  country  if  attacked."  lb.  295. — 
"  Yirg*  Ent.  A.  p.  1-11-208.  The  Board  of  Trade  having 
informed  Andros  of  its  appointment  and  desired  his  answer  to 
queries,  he  transmitted  in  July  1697  the  following  ])articulars, 
from  which  we  may  judge  of  the  political  state  of  the  Colony. 
The  province  had  been  then  divided  into  twenty -three  counties. 
The  numbers  of  the  people  had  never  been  taken  but  only  of 
the  taxables,  which  contained  the  white  men  upwards  of  six- 
teen years  of  age,  the  white  women  who  laboured  in  the  fields, 
the  Negroes  upwards  of  fourteen  :  From  the  year  1692  to  1696 
all  these  had  amounted  to  about  19,000  but' never  to  20,000. 
The  militia  consisted  of  2020  horse  and  of  6278  foot ;  in  all 


164  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

8298  men  fit  to  bear  arms  :  And  there  were  constantly  posted 
at  the  head  of  each  of  the  four  great  rivers  as  Eangers  a  Lieu- 
tenant and  eleven  men.  The  people  were  chiefly  employed 
in  planting  tobacco,  but  the  scarcity  of  goods  of  late  had  forced 
them  upon  manufacturing  woolen,  liunen,  and  shoes,  and  a 
few  began  to  make  tar.  Besides  tobacco  they  sent  to  Eng- 
land skins,  furs,  and  pipe-staves ;  to  the  other  colonies  they 
traded  little :  And  the  number  of  vessels  belonging  to  the 
Colony  were  two  ships,  four  brigs,  and  nine  sloops ;  but  there 
were  few  or  no  sailors  except  those  who  came  from  other  ports, 
because  they  generally  turned  planters.  The  domestic  Indians 
were  extremely  free,  and  no  means  had  ever  been  used  to 
convert  them.  And  the  general  state  of  the  country  is  plenty 
and  peace.     Yirg*  A.  40-115. 

MARYLAND. 

"  Mar/  Ent.  1  Ent.  1-18.—'"  The  speech  in  Mary'  papers 
C.  No.  5.—'*  Bac.  Laws  1692  ch.  4-20-42.— '^  Mar/' Pap.  0. 
No.  5.—'"  Laws  1692  ch.  17.—"  Mar/  Ent.  2  v.  p.  62.— 
"  1692  ch.  2.—"  Mar/  Ent.  3  v.  208-11.—=°  1692  cli  5.—='  1692 
ch.  84.—'=  The  address  M.  Ent.  3  v.  p.  52.—"  Id.  p.  76 :  Cop- 
ley sent  a  trusty  Messenger  to  Pensylvania,  in  order  to  view 
its  disorders,  to  inspect  its  trade,  and  to  sound  the  inliabitants 
how  far  they  would  consent  to  an  incorporation  with  Maryland, 
lb.— ^^  Virg^  Ent.  5  v.  p.  244.—=^  Id.  288.—'"  Laws  1694.  ch. 
6.-"  Virg-^  Ent.  5  v.  p.  266-7.—='  Mary^  Ent.  2  v.  p.  130-50- 
80-95.—'"  Bac.  Laws  1694,  ch.  1-33.—=^  Mar/  Ent.  2  v.  p.  178. 
— '=  The  sum  then  sent  was  £333.  6.  8  ;  which  was  said  to  be 
towards  maintenance  of  his  majestvs  troops  at  New  York. 
1695  ch.  27.—''  These  addresses  are  in  Mar/  A.  71-142.— 
"  Laws  1695,  ch.  6.—'^  Mar/  A.  52-5.—"^  lb.  357. 

Maryland  had  been  already  divided  at  the  departure  of 
Nicholson  in  the  year  1698,  into  13  counties  and  into  30 
parishes.  The  number  of  taxables,  which  contained  neither 
the  old  upwards  of  sixty,  nor  the  young  under  sixteen,  nor  the 
white  women,  amounted 

in  the  year  1694  to  9747 

in  95  10390 

in  96  ^  10776 

Tlie  taxables  had  increased  in  four  years  more  to  12,214 
The  z^Titaxables  to  20,044 


The  number  of  souls  in  1700  32,258 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  165 

Nevertheless  Nicholson  wrote  in  July  1697 ;  that  the  people 
emigrated  to  Pensylvania,  because  thej  expected  superior 
advantages ;  that  they  manufactured  linnen  and  woolen,  though 
the  asseuibly  would  not  confess  this,  least  an  act  of  Parliament 
should  he  made  to  restrain  them  ;  that  he  found  difficulties  in 
getting  ships  condemned  in  the  common  law  Courts,  because 
the  Juries  would  not  find  for  the  King,  and  as  a  remedy  he 
proposed  that  the  principal  officers  of  the  ships  of  war  should 
be  sworn  to  execute  tbe  Acts  of  Trade  ;  and  that  tobacco  had 
become  at  length  scarce  from  the  greatness  of  the  demand. 
For  the  before  mentioned  notice  see  Mary^  Pap.  A.  p.  81- 
150 ;  E.  p.  10.  Ent.  A.  p.  138. 

With  regard  to  the  laws  passed  in  Maryland  dm-ing  the 
years  1692-9-1—95-96  it  is  remarkable  that  they  were  not 
formally  considered  by  the  ministers  of  England  till  October 
1699,  when  many  of  them  were  repealed  by  the  advice  of 
Trevor  attorney  General.  This  neglectful  delay  arose  li'om 
the  procrastination  of  Ward  his  predecessor  who  retained  them 
till  he  was  made  chief  Baron,  and  then  returned  them  without 
any  report.     Mary^  pap.  A.  10-11-436-1:1. 

MASSACHUSETS. 

"  Hutch,  hist.  2  v.  p.  12-15.—'*  Ibid.  50-1.—'"  N.  Eng. 
Ent.  3  V.  414-17-19.—"  Hutch,  hist.  2  v.  62;  Neals.  hist.  2  v. 
ch.  12. — "'  Neal.  ch.  11. — "  See  the  minutes  of  the  Committee 
of  Council  with  regard  to  these  laws  N.  Eng.  Ent.  4  v.  p,  187- 
200. — *^  His  letters  and  petition  in  the  IN.  Eng.  pap.  6  v. — 
*■*  For  all  these  things  see  the  correspondence  in  N.  Eng.  Ent, 
3  V,  p,  454, — Pap.  6  v.  D,  46-7.  The  force  under  Wheeler 
consisted  of  two  3*^  rates,  three  4*''  rates,  three  5*^  rates,  besides 
a  multitude  of  smaller  vessels.  Id. — "  Neals  N.  Eng,  2  v.  p. 
491 ;  see  the  treaty  in  N.  Eng,  pap,  6  v.  ; — Colden, — *'  For  all 
these  facts  see  N.  Eng,  Ent,  p.  76-92-100 :  And  Journ^  7  v. 
p.  259,—"  Journ^  7  v.  p,  205-6.—"  Hutch.  2  v,  p,  83^.—"  The 
address  in  N.  Eng.  Ent.  4  v.  p.  179. — '"  Journ^  7  v.  p.  401-4. 
— "  Hutch.  2  V.  p.  88-9,—^'  Same  p,  94,—"  Neal  2  v.  552,— 
"  N,  Eng.  Ent.  A,  p,  51-2.—"  Same  53-61.—"  The  address 
in  the  same  p.  93, — "  These  facts  are  contained  in  N,  Eng. 
Ent,  A,  114-88.  Ten  pieces  of  ordnance  and  one  hundred 
barrels  of  gunpowder  were  sent  to  Massachusetts  by  Lord 
Bellomont. — "  Same  p,  168-75.  The  commission  of  Lord 
Bellomont  was  diflferent  from  those  of  other  royal  governments 
in  this  respect ;  that  it  was  founded  on  the  charter.  The  same 
authority  over  the  Captains  of  the  Kings  ships  that  had  ruined 


166  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

his  predecessor  was  now  conferred  on  that  nobleman.  He  was 
invested  by  his  instructions  with  the  sole  power  of  pressing 
seamen  for  the  royal  navy:  And  he  was  required  to  grant 
warrants  to  procure  men  when  requested.  He  was  commanded 
"  to  allow  no  printing  press  to  be  kept  nor  any  book  to  be 
printed  without  his  leave.  He  was  required  to  observe  the 
acts  of  Trade  and  to  encourage  the  officers  of  the  admiralty 
and  Customs.  His  commission  and  instructions  were  signed 
by  the  Lords  Justices — Canterbury — Somers — Eomney — Ox- 
ford. The  order  with  regard  to  the  pressing  of  seamen  was 
"  very  acceptable  to  the  people  who  gratefully  acknowledged 
his  majesty's  therein."  Same  p.  320. — '^  Same  p.  48-186-208 
-21. 

NEW  YORK. 

""  K  Yk.  Ent.  3  v.  p.  1-8.— ■»  Laws  p.  18.—"  K  Tk.  Ent. 
2  V.  p.  450-2.—"'  K  Yk.  Ent.  3  v.  p.  8 ;— Colden  ch.  9.— 
"  Laws  21.— '^  N.  Yk.  Ent.  4  v.  p.  19-26 :— On  this  occasion 
President  Lloyd  of  Pensylvania  wrote  to  Fletcher  in  January 
1693-4,  the  subjoined  characteristic  note:  "We  can  more 
readily  believe  your  burdens  than  give  you  relief  herein  :  We 
commiserate  you,  but  supply  you  at  this  juncture  we  cannot. 
The  Delegates  of  the  freemen  have  not  thought  it  advisable 
since  our  Proprietarys  absence  to  consent  to  the  raising  of  any 
money  either  towards  the  requisite  expence  of  government  or 
the  accommodation  of  our  neighbours.  We  shall  lay  your 
requisitions  before  the  Council  but  expect  little  success." 
From  N.  Yk.  Ent.  3  v.  p.  60.—"  N.  Yk.  Ent.  3  v.  p.  29-32. 
— "^  Colden  ch.  10.—'°  K  Yk.  Ent.  3  v.  p.  56-9.—"  Smiths 
hist.  p.  119.—"  Laws  p.  19-21.—"  N.  Yk.  Ent.  3  v.  p.  59.— 
''  Same  p.  71-83-150-1.  The  Estabhshment  for  the  four 
companies  of  400  from  the  1  April  1694  was  £6081.  3.  4.  a 
year,  payable  out  of  the  monies  appointed  for  the  pay  of  the 
land  forces  of  England.  N.  Yk.  Ent.  3  v.  p.  155.  The  follow- 
ing state  will  enable  the  reader  to  form  an  opinion  of  the 
respective  strength  of  the  various  colonies  dm-ing  the  wars  of 
William.     From  N.  Yk.  Ent.  3  v.  150-1. 

An  estimate  of  the  general  charge  that  is  necessary  for  the 
defence  of  Albany  and  securing  the  Lidians  and  adjacent 
colonies  from  the  attempts  of  the  French. 

600  men  with  their  officers  £16800  N.  Yk.  money, 

Incidental  charges                      2000  at  30  per  ct. 
Gifts  to  the  Indians                   2000 

£20,800 


CHALMERS  S    POLITICAL   ANNALS. 


167 


Supposed  fighting  men 


Virginia 

Maryland 

Pensylvania 

Connecticut 

K  England 

Rhodelsland 

New  York 


6000 
4000 
2000 
3000 
9500 
1200 
3000 

28000 


qu( 

)ta 

120  men 

£4200 

80 

2800 

40 

1400 

60 

176 

6160 

24 

840 

100 

3300 

600 


£20,800 


Note  by  this  scheme  New  York  is  to  advance  40  men  and 
the  sum  of  £1200  more  than  their  quota  proportionable  to  the 
other  provinces. 

The  quota  of  men  or  money  to  be  furnished  by  the  follow- 
ing colonies  as  approved  by  the  Lords  of  the  Committee  of 
Colonies. 


Connecticut 

120  men 

Rhode  Island 

48 

Massachusets 

350 

Maryland 

160 

Virginia 

240 

New  York 

200 

Pensylvania 

80 

1198  men 

With  the  consent  of  the  Proprietors  of  Jerseys 
the  Governor  of  New  York  is  empowered  by  a 
clause  in  his  commission  as  governor  of  Pensylvania 
to  command  any  part  of  their  [militia]  as  a  quota 


700 


Standing  forces  at  New  York       1898  men 

Secretary  Trumbull  communicated  in  August  1694  the  Kings 
commands  with  regard  to  these  quotas  to  the  Colonies  before 
mentioned  N.  Yk.  Ent.  3  v.  142-6. 

"  These  transactions  with  regard  to  Connecticut  may  be 
seen  in  N.  Yk.  pap.  F  36-59 ;  N.  Yk.  Ent.  125-6-33.—"'  N. 
Yk.  Ent.  3  v.  90-2. — "  For  these  intrigues  see  the  letters 
transmitted  by  Fletcher  to  Sec'' Blathwayt  in  Januar}"  1693-4. 
N.  Yk.  pap.  E  23-5.—'*  6-7  Wm.  3  ch.'  30  (private)  This  is 
one  of  those  acts  of  Parliament,  which  recites  falsehood  :  And 
this  circumstance  is  the  more  reprehensible  in  the  members 
to  whom  it  was  committed,  because  they  had  delivered  to 
them,  by  order  of  the  house,  the  whole  records  and  papei-s  with 
regard  to  these  transactions  in  the  plantation  othce.     These 


168  THE    CONTINUATION   OF 

may  be  seen  ."N.  Yk.  pap.  A.—'*  Hutch.  2  v.  p.  85-6.—'°  N. 
Yk.  Ent.  3  V.  41.— ''  Golden  ch.  10.— '^  N.  Yk.  Ent.  3  v.  p. 
176  ;  Presents  were  sent  of  the  value  of  £200.  Same  203. — 
*'  Golden  ch.  11.—"  Laws  25.—'^  iN".  Yk.  Ent.  3  v.  255-6.— 
'"  Golden  13.—"  Laws  26  ;  JST.  Yk.  A.  43-94.— «^  Same  p.  1-19 
-35-40.—^^  Same  152. 


PENSTLVANIA. 

'"  The  commission  recites  as  the  reasons  of  this  extraordinary- 
measure  :  "  That  by  the  great  neglects  and  miscarriages  in 
the  government  of  Pensylvania  and  the  absence  of  the  Pro- 
prietor the  same  had  fallen  into  great  disorder ;  whereby  the 
administration  of  justice  is  interrupted,  there  is  a  want  of  de- 
fence, and  Pensylvania  and  the  adjacent  Golonies  are  in  danger 
of  being  lost  to  the  crown  of  Englaud.'"  [N.  Yk.  Ent.  2  v.  p. 
403.]  Though  there  was  some  truth  in  these  suggestions,  yet 
they  did  not  formally  appear,  because  they  had  not  been  af- 
firmed of  a  jury.  And  it  ought  to  be  remembered,  that  when 
the  charters  of  Maryland  and  Pensylvania  were  taken  away 
there  was  no  other  formal  act  than  the  mere  appointment  of 
royal  governors  even  contrary  to  the  opposition  of  the  Proprie- 
taries of  both. 

"'  The  subjoined  letter  of  "William  Penn  to  Governor 
Fletcher  demonstrates  the  falsehood  of  the  suggestion  ;  "  that 
this  change  was  introduced  probably  in  concert  with  him." 
[In  the  K.  Yk.  papers  F  24.] — "•  Having  assurance  that  a 
commission  goes  to  thee  with  this  ship  to  command  my  prov- 
ince at  least  during  the  war  and  in  my  absence,  T  thought  it 
fit  by  the  same  opportunity  to  give  thee  this  caution,  that  1  am 
an  Englishman  and  that  country  and  government  of  it  insepa- 
rably my  property,  dearly  purchased  every  way  and  much 
indebted  to  me  and  my  children  ;  yet,  that  there  is  no  quo 
warranto  brought  nor  trial  nor  judgment  judicially  passed  in 
that  affair :  And  therefore  I  must  impute  it  to  some  informa- 
tion given  the  Lords  of  the  Gommittee  of  plantations  and  an 
excessive  care  in  them  over  the  English  territories.  Therefore 
hope  thee  will  tread  softly  and  with  caution  in  this  affair. 

Thy  friend—  Wm.  Penn." 

"  5th  October  1692." 

"  A  letter  sent  about  the  same  time  by  Penn  to  certain 
persons  in  Philadelphia  and  transmitted  by  Fletcher  to  the 
Lords  of  the  Committee  of  plantations  discovers  the  true  springs 
of  the  various  movements  during  his  administration  in  Pen- 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  169 

Bvlvania.  There  is  a  copy  of  the  letter  among  K.  Tk.  papers 
F23. 

Insist  upon  your  patent,  says  Penn,  with  wisdom  and 
moderation  but  steady  integrity  ;  you  are  to  bear  and  obey  the 
Crown  of  England  speaking  in  the  voice  of  the  law;  which 
this  is  not,  but  sic  volo  sic  jubeo,  doubtless  upon  advice  of 
emulous  neighbours  that  suggest  that  the  French  will  make 
away  with  the  province.  Set  forth  its  singular  situation  ;  your 
charges  and  labours ;  that  the  government  was  more  your 
motive  than  the  land ;  that  it  will  tend  to  the  ruin  of  the 
Colony  which  brinois  in  Customs:  And  send  this  over  to  and. 
both  friends  and  omers  will  deliver  your  representation  to  the 
Lords  of  the  Committee  of  plantations  or  to  the  King  in 
Council,  if  you  will  but  protest  against  the  governor  of  2^ew 
York  upon  his  arbitrary  Commission. 

°'  For  the  foregoing  facts  see  N.  Yk.  papers  4  v.  F. — 
'*  Mod.  Un.  hist,  41  v.  p.  10-12, — The  laws  then  enacted  under 
the  authority  of  Fletcher's  administration  being  transmitted 
to  the  ministers  of  England  they  required  Penn's  formal  con- 
firmation of  them  even  after  the  attorney  General  had  reported 
in  their  favour.  Pensy^  papers  p.  179-85. — °'  N.  Yk.  Ent,  3 
V.  p.  48.—°"  Hist.  Rev.  p.  31-3 ;  Mod.  Un.  hist.  41  v.  p.  13.— 
"'  In  July  1694  Sir  Edward  Ward  and  Sir  Thomas  Trevor 
gave  it  as  their  formal  opinion :  That  though  the  patent  had 
confeiTed  the  government  civil  and  military  on  the  petitioner, 
yet  that  in  cases  of  extraordinary  emergency  arising  through 
the  default  of  the  petitioner  his  majesty  may  constitute  a 
governor  for  the  protection  of  the  province ;  and  that  upon  the 
grounds  mentioned  in  Colonel  Fletchers  commission  his  majesty 
may  grant  surth  a  commission,  but  when  these  reasons  fail,  the 
right  of  government  doth  belong  to  the  petitioner.  Pensy^ 
pap.  173.  Such  was  the  opinion  of  the  ablest  Judges  and 
Lawyers  during  the  reign  of  William  ;  though  the  notion  of  a 
supjjosed  necesi^ity  justifying  the  prerogative  had  been  exploded 
in  the  famous  case  of  ship-money ;  though  the  Declaration  of 
right  had  affirmed,  that  the  most  trivial  privileges  of  the  sub- 
ject shall  not  be  taken  awav  by  a  King  of  England  without 
legal  process.—"'  N.  Yk.  Ent.  3  v.  p.  134-46.— ^^  Prop.  A.  1- 
2.—'°"  Hist.  Eev.  p.  33.—'"  Mod,  un.  hist.  41  v.  p.  13-15.— 
'"'  The  letters  of  the  governors  Copley  and  Nicholson  in  Mary^ 
Ent.  everywhere. 


"'  For  all  these  facts  see  Car.  Ent.  1  v.  p.  113-18 ;  3  v.  p. 
17-35 ;  Proprieties  C.  p.  4 ;  and  Plantations  Gen'  A.  p.  39. 


170  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 


ENGLAND  AND  THE  COLONIES. 

"*  Burnet  O.  T.  4  v.  239  ;  D'Avenant's  works,  3  v.  p.  89.  Id. 
appears  from  accurate  details  in  the  Plantation  office  [Planta- 
tions Gen^  A.]  there  was  allowed  to  carry  on  the  whole  trade 
of  the  Colonies  during 

The  year  1690       229  ships,  carrying  28,243  tons      men  2508 
1692  46,248  4111 

Tlie  whole  exports  to  the  continental  colonies  from  Michaelmas 

1696  to  Michaelmas  1697  amounted  only  to       £140,  132.  7.  6. 

The  imports  during  the  same  period  279,  854.  11.  9, 

'"'  Com.  Journ^  8  v,  p.  156. — ""'  In  pursuance  of  the  order 
of  the  Commons  in  October  1696  and  of  that  of  the  Lords  in 
February  following,  the  Board  laid  before  the  two  houses 
copies  of  their  commission  and  intelligent  reports  with  regard 
to  national  commerce  and  colonial  affairs.  Miscellanies  plant, 
off.  1  V.  p.  1-50, — '""  It  may  gratify  curiosity  as  well  as  disclose 
a  variety  of  useful  information  to  lay  before  the  public  The 
Mepreserdation  of  the  Board  to  the  Lords  Justices  in  Sep- 
tember 1696  with  regard  to  the  then  State  of  the  Colonies. 
From  Plant^  Gen^  A.  59. 

In  obedience  to  your  Excellencies  commands  of  the  26  of 
August  last  we  have  read  the  paper  thereto  annexed  which 
leading  us  into  the  consideration  of  the  present  state  of  his 
majestys  plantations  in  the  north  continent  of  America  we  find 
that  his  majesty  hath  been  at  the  charge  of  sending  four  com- 
panies from  hence  thither  and  for  the  maintaining  of  them 
there  for  many  years  last  past.  We  are  also  told  (for  we  can- 
not yet  get  a  sight  of  the  accomits)  that  that  little  province 
[New  York]  besides  the  loss  they  have  sustained  at  sea  as 
Colonel  Fletcher  their  governor  writes  hath  been  at  above 
£30,000  [money  of  the  province  at  the  Exchange  of  30  pet.] 
charge  in  securing  the  frontiers  against  the  attempts  of  the 
French  and  the  Indians  joined  with  them.  This  great  burden 
having  been  thought  too  heavy  to  be  born  by  this  single  prov- 
ince, which  was  as  it  were  the  outguard  to  his  majestys  neigh- 
bouring plantations  m  America,  her  late  majesty  of  ever 
blessed  memory  was  pleased  to  write  to  the  governors  of 
Virginia,  Maryland  Pensylvania  and  JSTew  England  to  agree 
upon  a  quota  of  men  or  other  assistance  to  be  given  by  each 
colony  or  province  for  the  defence  of  New  York  as  occasion 
should  require  but  by  the  neglect  or  various  pretences  of  the 
several  provinces  the  intended  quota  having  not  been  settled 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  171 

and  the  Colonies  concerned  not  having  come  to  any  agreement 
according  to  her  majestys  direction,  she  was  pleased  for  the 
preservation  of  those  plantations  to  establish  the  following 
quota  in  1694  viz. 

Connecticut     120     Maryland      160       New  York      200 
Ehode  Island     48     Virginia        240 
Massachusets   350     Pensylvania    80 

And  to  signify  her  pleasure  to  those  provinces  that  that 
quota  of  men  or  the  value  of  the  charges  of  maintaining  them 
should  be  the  measure  of  assistance  to  be  given  by  the  said 
provinces  respectively  for  the  defence  and  security  of  Kew 
York ;  which  order  of  her  majesty  by  reason  of  the  distinct 
and  independent  governments  and  of  those  of  his  majestys 
provinces  hath  very  uncertainly  and  imperfectly  been  complied 
with,  some  of  them  having  sent  more  some  of  them  less  in 
proportion  of  their  several  quotas  and  some  none  at  all. 

His  majesty  has  subjects  enough  in  those  parts  of  America 
not  only  to  defend  themselves  against  all  the  attacks  they 
may  apprehend  from  the  French  in  Canada  and  the  Indians 
joined  with  them  but  even  to  drive  them  out  from  hence; 
but  they  are  so  crumbled  into  little  governments  and  so  dis- 
united in  those  distinct  interests  that  they  have  hitherto  alford- 
ed  but  little  assistance  to  each  other  and  seem  (as  they  now 
are)  in  an  ill  posture  and  much  worse  disposition  to  do  it  for 
the  future.  And  it  is  almost  incredible  that  his  majestys 
governor  of  New  York  in  the  middle  of  above  40,000  English 
that  he  has  in  his  neighbom'hood,  should  say  as  he  does  that 
he  has  but  the  four  companies  his  majesty  sent  and  are  in  his 
majestys  pay  there  to  rely  on  for  the  defence  of  tliat  frontier 
in  case  of  any  attempt  from  the  French. 

We  having  with  our  outmost  care  considered  this  whole 
matter  are  humbly  of  opinion  : 

1st.  That  there  is  force  enough  in  those  plantations  to 
resist  and  repel  all  attempts  that  may  be  made  upon  them  by 
the  neighbouring  French  and  their  Indians;  nor  can  it  be 
imagined  tliat  so  great  a  number  of  English  there  should 
think  it  much  to  employ  their  own  hands  and  purses  in  defence 
of  their  own  estates  lives  and  families ;  but  should  expect  to 
be  wholly  supported  from  England  which  hath  spent  so  much 
blood  and  treasure  in  the  carrying  on  so  lasting  and  expensive 
a  war. 

21y.  We  humbly  conceive  that  the  strength  of  the  English 
there  cannot  be  made  use  of  with  that  advantage  it  ought  for 
the  preservation  of  those  Colonies  unless  they  be  united.     Not 


172  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

thoiigli  his  majesty  should  be  at  the  charge  to  send  more  force 
from  hence.  For  if,  as  is  pressed  by  the  governor  of  New 
Tork,  the  soldiers  which  his  majesty  lias  there  should  be  made 
up  full  500,  that  indeed  might  be  a  garrison  to  secure  Albany 
against  the  French,  but  not  the  other  plantations ;  since  the 
Fi-ench  would  certainly  there  decline  that  fortress  and  endea- 
vour to  make  an  impression  upon  some  of  the  other  provinces, 
careless  of  their  own  defence  and  not  so  well  guarded. 

Sly.  That  a  great  part  of  that  country  being  by  grants 
from  the  Crown  in  the  hands  of  private  proprietors,  and  so 
cannot  possibly  be  united  under  one  government,  we  are 
humbly  of  opinion,  that  there  can  be  no  other  way  of  uniting 
the  forces  of  those  several  plantations  to  make  them  effectual 
for  the  preservation  of  the  whole,  but  by  putting  them  all 
under  one  military  head  or  Captain  General ;  which  that  his 
majesty  has  power  to  do  ;  both  the  necessity  of  the  preservation 
of  his  people  in  time  of  danger  must  needs  satisfy  every  reason- 
able man  as  well  as  the  judgement  of  his  majestys  Attorney 
and  solicitor  general  given  the  2d  of  April  1694,  convinces  us 
that  it  may  be  done  by  law.  Their  words  in  answer  to  a  re- 
ference made  to  them  concerning  this  matter  are  as  followeth : 
"  We  are  humbly  of  opinion  that  the  charters  and  grants  of 
these  colonies  viz,  Connecticut,  Rhode  Island,  East  and  West 
Jersey  do  give  the  ordinary  power  of  the  militia  to  the  respec- 
tive governors  thereof,  but  do  also  conceive  that  their  majestys 
may  also  constitute  a  chief  commander,  who  may  have  autho- 
rity at  all  times  to  command  or  order  such  proportion  of  the 
forces  of  each  colony  or  plantation  as  their  majestys  shall  think 
fit  and  further  in  times  of  invasion  and  approach  of  the  enemy 
with  the  advice  of  the  Governors  of  the  Colonies  to  conduct 
and  command  the  rest  of  the  forces  for  the  defence  and  pre- 
servation and  defence  of  such  of  those  colonies  as  shall  most 
stand  in  need  thereof,  not  leaving  the  rest  unprovided  of  a 
competent  force  for  their  defence  and  safety,  but  in  time  of 
peace  when  the  danger  is  over  the  militia  within  each  of  the 
said  provinces  ought  as  we  humbly  conceive  to  be  under  the 
government  and  disposition  of  the  respective  governors  of  the 
said  colonies  according  to  their  charters." 

Whereupon  we  crave  leave  humbly  to  represent  to  your 
Excellencies  that  we  cannot  conceive  how  it  is  possible  that 
those  provinces  should  be  preserved  unless  his  majesty  shall 
be  pleased  to  constitute  and  appoint  during  the  war  some 
active  vigilant  and  able  man  zealous  for  his  service  and  govern- 
ment to  be  Captain  general  of  all  his  forces  and  the  militia  of 
all  the  provinces  colonies  and  plantations  on  the  continent  of 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  173 

North  America  with  a  power  to  levy  arm  muster  command 
and  employ  them  on  all  necessary  occasions  for  the  defence 
of  tliose  countries  under  such  limitations  and  instructions  as  to 
his  majesty  shall  seem  best  for  his  service  and  the  good  of 
those  colonies  aud  also  to  appoint  and  commission  officers  to 
train  and  exercise  at  convenient  times  such  of  the  inhabitants 
as  are  ht  to  bear  arms  that  they  may  be  expert  and  ready  at 
handling  of  their  arms  and  military  exercises ;  since  it  will  be 
too  late  to  begin  to  make  them  soldiers  and  fit  them  for  the 
defence  of  the  country  when  the  danger  is  come  upon  them. 

But  because  the  Quakers  inhabiting  some  of  those  prov- 
inces out  of  mistake  or  preteuce  of  conscience  refuse  their 
personal  aid  in  the  use  of  force  against  their  majestys  and 
their  enemies  it  may  be  left  to  the  prudence  of  the  said  Captain 
General  to  receive  from  them  in  money  their  share  of  assistance 
for  the  support  of  those  men  whom  he  shall  find  at  any  time 
necessary  to  raise  and  employ  in  their  and  their  neighbours 
defence. 

2ly.  And  we  further  humbly  offer  that  we  conceive  it 
necessary  that  the  said  Captain  General  should  have  the  power 
of  governor  of  any  of  the  said  plantations  immediately  depend- 
ing on  the  Crown  whilst  he  is  present  in  it. 

Unless  this  be  done  we  do  not  see  how  those  provinces  can 
be  preserved,  for  in  the  present  state  they  are  in,  wherein  they 
do  and  always  will  refuse  one  another  mutual  assistance  mind- 
ing more  their  present  profit  than  common  defence  it  is  not 
conceivable  how  it  can  be  avoided,  but  that  they  should  fall 
into  the  power  of  so  active  an  enemy  as  France  and  one  after 
another  be  all  destroyed.  The  Massachusets,  Connecticut, 
New  Hampshire,  Pensylvania,  Maryland  and  Virginia,  all 
allege  in  excuse  of  their  not  sending  aid  to  New  York,  ''  that 
they  are  all  as  much  exposed  to  the  enemy  as  that  province :  " 
and  yet  we  do  not  find  that  they  are  in  a  very  good  posture 
of  defence,  much  less  can  they  be  depended  on  for  a  timely 
and  vigorous  assistance  to  one  another  in  case  of  danger,  unless 
somebody  be  there  on  the  place  with  power  to  compel  them  to 
it.  Whereas  a  vigilant  general  there  having  under  his  eye 
the  care  of  the  whole  would  always  be  at  hand  to  oppose  the 
enemy  with  so  many  of  the  forces  that  are  nearest  which  would 
be  with  greatest  safety  and  least  charge  to  those  countries  and 
without  any  disturbance  and  expence  to  the  remoter. 

This  he  would  be  enabled  to  do  by  having  constant  intelli- 
gence with  the  neighbouring  Indians  our  friends  of  the  motions 
and  designs  of  the  enemy ;  upon  which  consideration  we  must 
crave  leave  further  to  represent,  that  the  said  Captain  General 


174  THE    CONTINUATION    OF 

should  be  instructed  to  take  all  manner  of  care  to  keep  the 
Five  Nations  and  what  other  Indians  are  yet  in  amity  with  us 
firm  in  friendship  ;  for  it  is  beyond  question,  that  it  would  be 
utterly  impossible  for  his  majestys  subjects  to  subsist  in  those 
parts,  but  they  must  inevitably  be  forced  to  leave  them,  if  all 
the  neighbouring  Indians  should  once  be  got  over  to  the  French 
and  become  our  enemies.  To  prevent  that  and  to  secure  them 
to  his  majestys  interest  it  will  be  expedient  that  the  said  Cap- 
tain General  should  from  time  to  time  make  them  such  pre- 
sents sent  from  hence  as  he  should  find  necessary  and  that 
some  of  the  most  leading  and  eminent  amongst  them  should 
be  entertained  and  have  constant  pay  as  Ensigns  or  Lieutenants 
of  his  majesty  and  be  treated  as  his  oflicers ;  and  next  that  they 
should  be  rewarded  for  all  execution  done  by  them  on  the 
enemy  and  the  scalps  they  bring  be  well  paid  for.  Further 
that  some  lusty  vigorous  youths  of  the  English  should  accom- 
pany them  in  their  expeditions,  huntings  and  other  exercise, 
who  by  inhabiting  amongst  them  and  learning  their  language 
grow  acquainted  with  their  woods,  rivers  and  passes  and  come 
in  a  little  time  to  be  able  to  endure  their  fatigues.  All  which 
would  be  a  means  to  familiarize  them  to  us  and  strengthen 
their  union  with  us ;  and  to  this  those  young  men  should  be 
encouraged  by  a  certain  assurance  o^  rewards  and  preferment 
which  they  should  never  fail  of  according  to  their  deserts  in 
this  service.  That  some  of  the  bravest  or  most  credited  of  our 
Indian  friends  should  be  brought  (if  they  can  be  persuaded  to 
it)  into  England  to  see  the  strength  of  his  majestys  forces  by 
sea  and  laud  and  the  populousness  of  his  dominions,  especially 
of  this  great  City  of  London  :  the  certain  knowledge  of  which 
would  be  of  great  force  to  confirm  them  in  their  union  with 
us ;  and  that  captives  of  the  Indian  enemies  should  be  brought 
into  England  for  the  same  purpose.  The  knowledge  of  his 
majestys  power  and  greatness  serving  to  deter  the  one  as  well 
as  to  hearten  and  animate  the  other. 

And  lastly,  that  efiectual  means  should  be  taken  for  the 
conversion  of  them  to  the  protestant  faith ;  for  among  these 
here  as  well  as  among  all  other  men,  religion  has  been  found 
by  experience  to  be  one  of  the  strongest  bonds  of  Union  :  For 
this  good  use  we  think  the  Governor  and  Company  here  in 
London  for  propagating  the  gospel  in  ]^ew  England  and  the 
parts  adjacent  in  America  will  be  very  ready  to  apply  their 
stock  and  revenue  when  they  shall  be  made  to  see,  that  the 
converting  the  Mohawkes  and  others  of  the  Five  Nations  (to 
which  they  have  already  contributed  some  small  matter)  is  of 
the  greatest  importance  imaginable  for  preserving  of  those  of 


Chalmers's  political  annals.  175 

the  protestant  religion  who  are  in  those  parts  as  well  as  for 
the  gaining  new  converts  to  it. 

These  things  relating  to  the  Indians  we  think  we  may  with 
the  more  confadence  recommend,  they  being  with  great  care 
and  earnestness  practised  by  the  French  for  the  gaining  and 
holding  of  the  Indians  in  Canada,  where  if  they  go  on  by  these 
means  to  prevail  on  them  as  they  have  hitherto  done  'tis  to  be 
apprehended  his  majestys  subjects  shall  not  be  long  quiet  and 
safe  in  these  his  northern  plantations.  On  the  back  of  which 
the  French  daily  and  with  great  industry  extend  themselves 
and  seem  to  have  some  other  view  than  bare  planting  there  ; 
which  gives  us  just  reason  to  add,  that  we  humbly  conceive 
some  such  effectual  coxa-se  as  we  have  here  proposed  should 
be  speedily  taken,  for  fear  it  should  come  too  late ;  for  there 
seems  to  us  a  great  probability  that  the  French  will  at  this 
time  have  some  aim  that  way. 

Tankerville  John  Locke 
Ph.  Meadows  Abk.  Hill 
Whitehal  30  Sep*"®  John  Polexfen 
1696 
Remark.  It  seems  unnecessary  to  point  out  the  extravagant 
illegality  of  the  appointment  of  a  Captain  general  here  recom- 
mended. That  a  King  of  England  is  generalissimo  of  the 
state  is  acknowledged  :  And  that  he  may  appoint  generals  to 
command  the  troops,  which  have  been  raised  with  consent  of 
the  state,  in  every  dominion  belonging  to  the  crown  follows  as 
a  necessary  consequence.  But  of  his  own  authority  he  cannot 
levy  an  army  and  the  money  which  must  subsist  it :  And  he 
cannot  therefore  empower  another  to  do  so.  It  may  however 
gratify  the  public  to  peruse  what  that  renowned  legislator 
William  Penn  recommended  on  this  important  subject.  And 
with  this  view  is  subjoined  :  A  brief  and  plain  scheme  how 
the  English  Colonies  in  the  north  parts  of  America,  to  wit 
Boston,  Connecticut,  Rhode  Island,  New  York,  New  Jersey, 
Pensylvania,  Maryland,  Virginia,  and  Carolina  may  be  made 
more  useful  to  the  Crown  and  one  anothers  peace  and  safety 
with  an  universal  concurrence.  [From  Plant"  Gen'  A.  p.  102.] 
Istly.  The  several  colonies  before  mentioned  do  meet  once 
a  year  and  oftener  if  need  be  during  the  war,  and  at  least  once 
in  two  years  during  peace,  by  their  stated  and  appointed 
Deputies  to  debate  and  resolve  upon  such  measures  as  are 
most  advisable  for  their  better  understanding  and  their  public 
tranquillity  and  safety. 

21y.  That  in  order  to  it  two  persons  well  qualified  for  sense, 
sobriety,  and  substance  be  appointed  by  each  province  as  their 


176  CHAL^rERS's    POLITICAL    AKNALS. 

Representatives  or  Deputies;  which  in  the  whole  make  the 
Congress  to  consist  of  twenty  persons. 

3ly.  That  the  Kings  Commissioner  for  that  purpose  specially 
appointed  should  have  the  Chair  and  preside  in  the  said  Con- 
gress. 

4:ly.  That  they  shall  meet  as  near  as  conveniently  may  be 
to  the  most  central  colony  for  ease  of  the  Deputies. 

51y.  Since  that  may  in  all  probability  be  JS^ew  York  ;  both 
because  it  is  near  the  center  of  the  Colonies  and  for  that  it  is  a 
frontier  and  in  the  Kings  nomination,  the  Governor  of  that 
Colony  may  also  be  the  Kings  high  commissioner  during  the 
session,  after  the  manner  of  Scotland. 

61y.  That  their  business  shall  be  to  hear  and  adjust  all 
matters  of  complaint  or  difference  between  province  and  pro- 
vince :  As  1st. ;  where  persons  quit  their  own  province  and 
go  to  another  that  they  may  avoid  their  just  debts  thougli  they 
may  be  able  to  pay  them  ;  21y.  where  offenders  fly  justice,  or 
justice  cannot  well  be  liad  upon  such  offenders  in  the  provinces 
that  entertain  tliem  ;  Sly.  To  prevent  or  cure  injuries  in  point 
of  commerce ;  41y.  To  consider  of  ways  and  means  to  support 
the  Union  and  safety  of  these  provinces  against  the  public 
enemies  ;  in  which  Congress  the  quotas  of  men  and  charge  wall 
be  much  easier  and  more  equally  set  than  it  is  possible  for  any 
establishment  here  to  do.  For  the  provinces  knowing  their 
own  condition  and  one  anothers  can  debate  that  matter  with 
more  freedom  and  satisfaction  and  better  adjust  and  balance 
their  affairs  in  all  respects  for  their  common  safety. 

Tly.  That  in  times  of  war  the  Kings  high  commissioner 
shall  be  general  or  chief  commander  of  the  several  quotas  upon 
service  against  the  common  enemy  as  he  shall  be  advised  for 
the  good  and  benefit  of  the  whole. 

Remark :  When  Pen  delivered  the  above  project  to  the  Lords 
Commissioners  of  Colonies  on  the  8th  of  February  1696-7, 
"  He  further  explained  his  meaning  in  it  was  principally  for 
adjusting  the  differences  that  might  arise  between  any  of  those 
Colonies  in  civil  matters  not  military ;  and  that  the  determina- 
tions to  be  made  in  the  assembly  by  him  proposed  should  be 
by  plurality  of  voices."  Journ'  A.  p.  395.  But  this  plausible 
project  was  little  regarded  by  the  Board  or  by  the  public, 
though  recommended  by  the  powerful  pen  of  D'Avenant. 


n. 


LETTEES 


SMITH'S  HISTOEY  OF  NEW  YORK, 


BY 

CADWALLADER  GOLDEN. 


12 


NOTE 


Cadwallader  Golden,  the  author  of  the  following  letters, 
will  always  be  conspicuous  among  the  distinguished  men  of  New 
York  dui-ing  the  eighteenth  century.  Probably  no  American 
scholar  of  his  time  was  better,  or  more  widely  known,  and  his  cor- 
respondence with  leading  scientific  men  in  Europe  as  well  as  Ameri- 
ca forms  a  very  important  part  of  the  collection  of  his  manuscript 
papers  now  in  possession  of  the  New  York  Historical  Society, 
and  hereafter  to  be  published  in  the  series  of  volumes  of  which 
this  is  the  first.  The  collection  embraces  Colden's  general  as  well 
as  official  correspondence,  beginning  as  early  as  1710  and  ending 
only  with  his  retirement  from  public  life  a  few  months  before  his 
death  in  1776. 

"  Governor  Golden,"  says  Verplanck,  "  was  a  scholar  of  vari- 
ous and  extensive  attainments,  and  of  a  very  great  and  unremitted 
ardour  and  application  in  the  acquisition  of  knowledge.  When  it 
is  considered  how  large  a  portion  of  his  life  was  spent  in  the  labors 
or  the  routine  of  public  ofiice,  and  that  however  great  might  have 
been  his  original  stock  of  learning,  he  had  in  this  country  no  read- 
ing public  to  excite  him  by  their  applause,  and  few  literary  friends 
to  assist  or  to  stimulate  his  inquiries,  his  zeal  and  success  in  his 
scientific  pursuits  will  appear  deserving  of  the  highest  admiration. 
A  great  mass  of  manuscripts  on  mathematical,  botanical,  metaphy- 
sical and  theological  learning,  in  addition  to  the  works  published 
during  his  life,  afford  ample  proof  of  the  extent  and  variety  of  his 
knowledge,  and  the  strength,  the  acuteness,  and  the  versatility  of 
his  intellect." 

The  publication  of  the  "  Golden  Papers  "  will  insure  a  perma- 
nent memorial  of  his  fame — a  lasting  monument  of  his  industry 
and  various  acquirements,  which  may  go  far  to  redeem  New  York 
from  the  sin  of  neglect,  if  not  of  ingratitude. 


180  PREFATORY   NOTE. 

William  Smith's  History  of  New  York  was  included  in  the  first 
series  of  publications  of  the  New  York  Historical  Society,  being  a 
new  edition  of  the  original  woi'k  entirely  revised  by  the  author, 
with  a  continuation  making  a  second  volume,  from  the  author's 
original  manuscript.  A  subsequent  volume  of  the  Society's  collec- 
tions contains  the  direct  correspondence  of  Lieut.  Gov.  Golden 
with  the  father  of  the  historian  and  the  historian  himself,  respect- 
ing certain  alleged  errors  and  misstatements  in  his  History.  This 
was  mainly  with  reference  to  the  transactions  between  the  Gov- 
ernment of  the  Province  and  Captain  Laughlin  Campbell,  which 
grew  out  of  a  "  scheme  of  Governor  Clarke  for  settling  the  lands 
in  the  vicinity  of  Lake  George  with  a  colony  of  Protestant  High- 
landers." This  subject  is  further  discussed  in  the  letters  now 
printed. 

These  letters,  copied  from  the  originals  and  now  first  published, 
have  an  interest  in  themselves  which  seems  to  warrant  their  sepa- 
ration from  the  mass  of  the  collection  and  present  publication. 
Although  incomplete,  and  not  intended  at  the  time  for  the  public 
eye,  they  are  eminently  suggestive ;  and  as  they  throw  gleams 
of  hght  on  many  obscure  passages  of  New  York  history,  will  un- 
doubtedly be  regarded  with  interest  as  materials  of  history  not 
less  valuable  from  the  want  of  reserve  and  freedom  of  treatment 
characteristic  of  a  familiar  domestic  correspondence. 


THE    GOLDEN    LETTEKS  ON 
SMITHS    HISTORY. 


OADWALLADER  GOLDEN"  TO  HIS  SOK 

[1Y59.] 

Dear  Son, 

As  I  have  been  conversant  in  the  public  transactions 
in  this  Province  near  forty  years,  and  am  now  by  my 
age  become  unfit  for  action  and  retired  I  have  thought 
that  I  could  not  do  better  than  to  employ  part  of  what 
time  I  have  remaining  in  writing  Memoirs  of  the  public 
transactions  for  the  use  of  my  children  wherein  I  was 
privy  to  or  could  discover  the  true  motives  of  action. 
There  is  more  to  be  learned  from  experience  than  can  be 
by  precept,  for  the  first  makes  a  much  stronger  impres- 
sion on  us  than  the  other  and  I  am  desirous  that  my 
children  if  possible  may  have  all  the  advantages  of  my 
experience  which  perhaps  I  acquired  too  late  in  life  for 
my  own  advantage. 

I  designed  at  first  to  have  ^vrote  only  loose  memoirs 
of  what  passed  in  my  own  time  but  having  lately  read 
Mr.  Smiths  History  of  New  York  I  think  that  as  this 
is  the  first  and  only  History  of  this  Province,  it 
probably  may  serve  as  a  foundation  for  future  History 
and  therefor  I  think  it  may  be  of  use  to  j^ou  to  make 
some  remarks  on  it  in  the  first  place  He  has  not  been 
informed  of  some  things  of  other  things  he  has  been  mis- 
informed and  I  wish  I  could  not  add  that  some  things 
he  seems  to  have  willfully  misrepresented.  When  I  come 
to  my  own  times  I  shall  intermix  the  remarks  on  that 
Histor)'  with  the  memoirs  which  I  think  may  be  of  use 
to  my  children. 


182  THE    GOLDEN    LETTERS 

Truth  and  Sincerity  are  so  essential  to  History  that 
as  an  Historian  would  be  laught  at  who  should  introduce 
his  History  with  I  will  tell  you  no  Lye  I  will  not  de- 
ceive you  so  when  History  is  introduced  more  solemnly 
with  The  sacred  Laws  of  Truth  have  been  infringed 
neither  by  positive  Assertions^  oblique^  insidious  Hints^ 
wilful  suppressions  or  corrupt  n^isreprese^itations  *  the 
author  with  men  who  know  the  world  puts  the  reader 
more  upon  his  guard. 

Mr  Smith  places  the  Value  of  his  History  on  his 
having  extracted  it  from  the  Records  of  the  Province  no 
doubt  this  is  of  great  advantage  for  the  ascertaining  of 
facts  and  chronology,  but  little  can  be  learned  from 
thence  of  the  Motives  and  Springs  of  Action  and  the  life 
of  History  the  great  use  of  it  is  in  discovering  these  first 
Motives  and  Springs  of  Action.  There  are  many  things 
in  his  History  of  which  he  could  have  no  information 
from  the  Records. 

Mr  Smith  o-ives  the  aro^uments  at  laro;e  which  the 
Dutch  Governor  made  use  of  to  support  the  Pretensions 
of  the  Dutch  to  the  New  Netherlands.  This  may  be 
grateful  to  the  Descendants  of  the  Dutch  who  live  in 
New  York  but  it  may  be  expected  by  the  English  that 
he  should  have  given  the  answers  to  these  pretensions  in 
which  he  is  silent.  The  Princes  of  Europe  founded 
their  pretensions  in  America  on  the  first  Discoveiy  and 
in  taking  possession  It  was  impossible  to  take  posses- 
sion of  every  part  at  once  but  by  that  of  part  with  a 
publick  Declaration  of  the  Territory  they  intended  to 
hold  by  this  Discovery  and  actual  Possession  There  is 
no  question  that  the  first  Discovery  of  North  America 
was  under  Commission  from  the  King  of  England  and 
that  the  first  settlement  was  made  by  the  English  with 
a  publick  Declaration  by  the  Kings  letters  Patent  that  he 
claimed  by  that  discovery  and  possession  from  the  39th 
to  the  45th  degr.  of  Latitude.  After  this  according  to 
the  rules  then  and  there  observed  among  Potentates  no 

*   Preface  to  Smiths  History. 


ON  smith's  history.  183 

Nation  in  amity  with  England  could  settle  within  these 
bounds  without  a  Breach  of  the  Amity  between  them 
It  must  certainly  [have]  been  on  reasoning  from  these 
Principles  and  the  argument  of  superior  force  that  the 
Dutch  expelled  the  Swedes  from  Delaware  The  Dutch 
took  advantage  of  the  Intestine  disorders  and  the  civil 
war  in  England  to  establish  themselves  in  the  country 
claimed  by  the  Crown  of  England  and  the  English  cer- 
tainly were  in  the  right  to  reclaim  this  Country  as  soon 
as  the  publick  tranquility  permitted  them  to  do  it  The 
Dutch  in  a  similar  case  would  have  done  the  like.  The 
cautious  proceeding  of  the  States  general  in  giving  their 
Authority  to  the  settling  a  Colony  on  Hudson s  River 
shews  that  that  they  were  sensible  of  the  Justice  and 
force  of  the  English  claim  It  is  common  on  Declaration 
of  War  to  reclaim  countries  which  had  been  yielded  on 
treaty  for  on  a  declaration  of  War  all  former  treaties  be- 
come void  and  in  such  reclaiming  either  side  is  fond  of 
making  use  of  the  Historeans  of  the  other  side  to  justify 
their  claim. 

The  Dutch  in  this  Province  it  is  probable  think  the 
Articles  of  Surrender  are  still  in  force  and  that  any 
breach  of  them  is  a  piece  of  injustice  to  them  and  there- 
for among  other  things  they  may  in  their  own  minds 
justify  themselves  in  carrying  on  the  illicit  trade  with 
Holland  in  opposition  to  the  Laws  of  Trade  which  has 
been  carried  on  from  New  York  for  many  years.     But 

1.  It  may  be  justly  doubted  whether  these  articles 
could  be  construed  properly  to  extend  farther  than  to 
the  persons  of  the  Dutch  Inhabitants  who  then  sub- 
mitted 

2.  When  afterwards  the  States  General  by  Publick 
Treaty  quitted  all  claim  to  this  country  no  regard  is  had 
of  these  articles  of  surrender  but  the  Country  is  absolutely 
given  up  without  condition 

3.  If  these  very  persons  who  submitted  to  the  Eng- 
lish Government  voluntarily  and  without  force  re- 
nounced their  allegiance  and  submitted  a  new  to  the 
States  of  Holland  they  then  forfeited  without  doubt  all 


184  THE    GOLDEN    LETTERS 

the  priviledges  that  they  could  claim  by  the  articles  of 
surrender 

That  this  was  the  case  when  the  Dutch  regained  in 
1673  what  they  called  the  New  Netherlands  I  believe  is 
true  I  have  been  told  by  some  of  the  Dutch  Inhabit- 
ants of  New  York  who  remembered  the  thing  well,  That 
the  Dutch  Ships  when  they  came  under  Staten  Island 
had  no  thoughts  of  attempting  the  conquest  of  New  York 
but  only  to  take  in  wood  and  water  knowing  there  was 
not  sufficient  force  to  hinder  them  but  that  while  they 
were  there  the  Dutch  inhabitants  invited  the  Dutch  com- 
modore to  take  possession  of  the  place  at  the  same  time 
informing  him  of  the  weakness  of  the  English  Garrison 
the  Govr.  and  the  greater  part  of  the  Garrison  being 
then  absent  at  Esopus  on  an  occasion  which  I  shall  after- 
wards mention 

When  the  Dutch  ships  came  up  to'  the  town  the  In- 
habitants all  flocked  to  the  shore  to  welcome  them  with 
all  the  demonstrations  of  joy  which  they  could  make 
The  Inhabitants  of  Albany  Esopus  and  on  Delaware 
river  made  their  submission  to  the  Dutch  without  the  least 
appearance  of  force  When  the  case  is  thus  truly  set 
forth  the  surrender  without  capitulation  is  not  so  extra- 
ordinary nor  the  Lenity  of  the  sentence  against  Manning 
who  commanded  in  the  fort  so  ridiculous  as  it  appears 
to  be  according  to  the  account  given  of  it  in  Mr  Smiths 
History. 

Mr  Smiths  account  I  know  is  founded  on  the  records 
of  New  York  but  can  any  man  believe  that  Manning  on 
his  trial  would  confess  absolutely  the  charge  exhibited 
against  him  without  excusing  himself  from  the  Disposi- 
tion in  which  the  Dutch  Inhabitants  w^ere  and  the  weak- 
ness of  his  own  Garrison  or  that  if  he  had  not  greatly 
extenuated  his  crime  that  so  mild  a  sentence  could  have 
been  pronounced  against  him  and  by  which  he  was  cer- 
tainly absolved  from  all  Treachery  tho'  found  guilty  of 
Cowardice. 

While  Col  Lovelace  was  Governor  the  Esopus  Indians 
made  war  on  the  Dutch  Setlers  there.      The  Indians 


ON  smith's  history.  185 

killed  several  and  made  many  men  and  women  prisoners 
The  remainder  were  forced  into  a  small  stockaded  fort 
where  the}'  defended  themselves  mth  great  difficulty 
against  the  Indians  till  they  were  relieved  by  the  Eng- 
lish Garrison  of  New  York  the  greatest  part  of  which 
Col  Lovelace  sent  with  some  pieces  of  Cannon  for  their 
relief  While  the  Christians  were  besieged  the  Indians 
burnt  some  of  their  prisoners  alive  in  sight  of  the  Fort 
and  while  the  Dutch  of  Esopus  were  in  this  distress  sev- 
eral of  their  own  Countrymen  from  Albany  came  to  a 
place  called  Sagartie  about  10  miles  from  the  fort  and 
supplied  the  Indians  with  all  kinds  of  ammunition  Such 
are  the  effects  of  having  no  other  principle  of  action  but 
the  Love  of  Money.  The  Dutch  of  Esopus  to  this  day 
remember  this  behavior  of  their  Countrymen  of  Albany 
and  speak  of  them  with  the  greatest  Indignation 

The  Dutch  of  Esopus  were  all  Farmers  those  of  Al- 
bany who  supplied  the  Indians  were  Handlers  (as  the 
Dutch  call  them)  people  who  live  by  retailing  goods  to 
the  Indians 

As  soon  as  the  English  Soldiers  arrived  the  Indians 
fled  into  the  Woods  They  were  pursued  and  defeated 
Peace  was  soon  after  concluded  by  which  the  Lidians 
yielded  all  the  land  as  far  as  any  cannon  had  been  car- 
ried which  was  to  the  upper  end  of  Marbletown  Coll 
Lovelace  gave  these  conquered  lands  to  his  Soldiers  and 
called  it  Marbletown  The  Common  men  generally  sold 
their  shares  and  dispersed  but  the  families  of  the  Officers 
remain  in  that  place  to  this  day  They  were  Broad- 
head  Garton  Nottingham  and  Pawling 

It  may  be  observed  to  the  honour  of  the  English  that 
there  is  not  one  instance  of  their  killing  and  destroying  in 
cold  blood  merely  for  their  own  security  where  their  enne- 
mies  may  have  been  thought  too  numerous.  The  Span- 
yards  in  America  and  the  Dutch  in  the  East  Indies  have 
acted  otherwise  Many  thousand  innocent  people  have 
been  Sacrificed  to  their  Jealousy  I  was  told  of  one  in- 
stance of  the  like  nature  in  this  Country 

On  a  certain  occasion,  I  walked  from  the  North  or 


186  THE    GOLDEN   LETTERS 

Hudson's  Kiver  to  the  east  river  at  a  little  distance  from 
the  town  in  company  with  the  Mayor  and  several  old 
men  who  went  on  purpose  to  shew  me  the  boundaries  of 
some  lands  as  we  passed  over  a  piece  of  high  ground  be- 
tween the  place  where  Mr  DeLancy  the  Lt  Gr  now  lives 
in  the  Bowery  and  the  East  River  I  was  told  by  some  of 
them  that  in  the  Dutch  time  a  great  number  of  Indians 
fled  from  the  Eastward  and  encamped  on  this  rising 
ground  in  hopes  of  the  Assistance  and  Protection  of  the 
Dutch  They  were  received  friendly  but  a  number  of 
the  men  of  the  town  dressed  themselves  like  Indians 
in  the  night  went  out  and  fell  upon  the  Indians  while 
they  were  a  sleep  murdered  the  greatest  number  of 
them,  while  a  few  made  their  escape  into  the  town  as 
to  their  friends  and  the  Indians  never  discovered  this 
piece  of  treachery.  The  Dutch  Historians  generally  pass 
over  these  acts  of  cruelty  in  their  own  countrymen  how- 
ever necessary  they  may  have  been  thought  for  their  own 
security  and  the  condemning  them  to  oblivion  or  secret- 
ing them  from  all  other  nations  is  certainly  most  con- 
sistant  with  this  kind  of  Policy  but  as  certainly  it  is  as 
much  for  the  interest  of  other  nations  that  they  should 
not  be  forgot  especially  to  the  English  who  abhor  all 
such  cruelties 

As  to  ]\Ir  Smiths  note  at  the  bottom  of  page  32  with 
regard  to  the  Law  post  liminium  I  would  ask  this  Ques- 
tion if  the  Dutch  by  virtue  of  this  Law  could  reclaim  their 
inheritance  after  they  had  reconquered  this  country  could 
the  English  by  the  same  law  reclaim  their  inheritances 
if  the  Dutch  after  the  English  recovered  the  country 

While  I  have  freely  censured  some  parts  of  Mr 
Smiths  History  I  cannot  but  take  notice  of  an  uncommon 
impartiality  in  a  Lawyer  of  applauding  the  exact  admin- 
istration of  justice  by  Governors  who  ruled  only  by  the 
dictates  of  their  own  discretion.  He  seems  to  grant  that 
justice  may  be  don  under  a  despotic  government  but  I 
doubt  whether  it  be  possible  that  justice  can  be  don 
where  the  administration  of  it  is  in  the  hands  of  Lawyers 
for  tho'  the  Judgement  given  may  be  just  it  is  allwise  at- 


ON  smith's  histokt.  187 

tended  with  injustice  in  the  expense  and  delay  which 
attends  it. 

The  Governors  of  New  York  took  on  them  the  power 
of  granting  divorces  which  has  been  in  disuse  at  least 
ever  since  the  Revolution  neither  is  there  any  court 
in  this  province  that  can  give  this  remedy  tho'  in  the 
neighboring  Colonies  a  divorce  is  more  easily  obtained 
than  perhaps  in  any  other  Christian  Country  Query 
whether  this  may  not  be  for  the  advantage  of  a  new 
country  which  wants  people  It  is  certain  that  the  natural 
increase  of  People  in  New  England  has  been  very  great 
perhaps  more  than  in  any  other  of  the  English  Colonies 

Now  I  have  taken  notice  of  what  has  occur  d  to  my 
memory  and  which  I  think  deserves  your  notice  to  the 
time  that  the  States  of  Holland  renounced  all  claim  to 
this  Country  If  I  continue  at  leisure  and  in  health  you  may 
expect  to  have  more  on  the  same  subject  from, 


CADWALLADER  GOLDEN  TO  HIS  SON. 

Dear  Son, 

There  are  only  one  or  two  things  in  Mr  Smiths 
History  before  the  revolution,  that  I  shall  observe  upon, 
more  than  what  I  have  taken  notice  of  in  my  preceeding 
of  the  15th.  The  first  is  his  character  of  Sr  Edmund 
Andross  which  he  gives  in  the  following  words  "  The 
"  Historians  of  New  England  where  he  was  afterwards 
"  Governor  justly  transmit  him  to  posterity  under  the 
"  odious  character  of  a  sycophantic  tool  to  the  Duke,  and 
"an  arbitrary  Tyrant  over  the  people  committed  to  his 
"  care.  He  Knew  no  Law,  but  the  Will  of  his  Master, 
"  and  Kirk  and  Jeffries  were  not  fitter  instruments  than 
"  he  to  execute  the  despotic  projects  of  James  II " 

The  facts  which  Mr  Smith  tells  us  in  support  of  this 
Character  are,  that  the  Duke  of  York  recommended  a 
Dutch  clergyman  Nicholas  Rensalacr,  to  Sr  Edmund 
for  a   living  in   one  of  the  churches  in  New  York  or 


188  THE    COLDEN    LETTERS 

AXb'Awy^  probably  to  serve  the  popish  cause.  Is  not  this 
an  ohliqiie,  insidious  hiiit  ?  Could  K  James  do  nothing 
without  a  view  to  serve  popery  ?  Sr  Edmund  Andross 
was  a  Protestant  as  many  of  the  Dukes  servants  were 
might  not  they  be  desirous  of  a  Dutch  minister  who  had 
received  ordination  in  the  Church  of  England  to  preach 
to  the  Dutch  in  New  York  in  their  oa\ti  language, 
where  few  of  them  understood  English  and  might  they 
not  do  this  without  any  design  to  promote  popery  ?  Mr 
Smiths  next  proof  of  Sr  Edmunds  tyrannic  disposition 
is  that  he  summoned  Newenhytt^  the  Dutch  minister  at 
Albany  before  the  council  treating  him  with  contempt 
and  harassing  him  with  an  expensive  attendance  be- 
cause Neimnhytt  disputed  Rensalaers  right  to  administer 
the  sacrament  which  Mr  Smith  tells  us  he  did  because 
Rensalaer  had  received  Episcopal  ordination  and  was 
not  approved  of  by  the  classis  of  Amsterdam  Mr  Smith 
thinks  this  a  small  offence  to  deny  that  a  person  who 
has  received  Episcopal  ordination  can  administer  the 
Sacraments  in  an  English  Colony,  and  to  set  up  a 
Foreign  Jurisdiction  in  Ecclesiastic  matters,  within  the 
Dominion  of  the  crown  of  England.  I  say  Mr  Smith 
thinks  this  a  small  oiFence  when  he  complains  of  an  ex- 
pensive attendance  on  this  account.  Whatever  he  may 
think  as  an  Independent  in  Principle,  he  knows  better  as 
a  Lawyer.  As  to  my  part,  according  to  Mr  Smiths  ac- 
count of  this  matter,  I  think  Sr  Edmund  shewd  great 
moderation,  in  referring  it  at  last  to  the  Dutch  consistory 
at  Albany.  The  third  instance  of  Sr  Edmund's  Tyranny- 
is  that  he  called  the  Magistrates  of  Albany  before  him, 
because  they  had  imprisoned  Rensalaer  for  dubious 
ivords  delivered  in  a  sermon.  Had  Sr  Edmund  im- 
prisoned any  person  for  dubious  ivords.,  I  think  it  would 
have  been  a  stronger  proof  of  his  Tyranny,  than  the 
punishing  the  magistrates  under  him  for  doing  it.  Mr 
Smith's  last  proof  of  Sr  Edmunds  Tyranny  is,  his 
seizing  and  imprisoning  the  Governor  of  New  Jersey.  Mr 
Smith  does  not  tell  us  the  reasons  of  this  proceeding,  and 
I  know  them  not.     [But  Mr  Smith  mistakes  when  he 


ON  smith's  history.  189 

says  that  Sr  Edmund  was  removed  from  the  Government 
of"  New  York.  His  having  the  Government  of  New 
England  given  him,  while  he  was  Governor  of  New 
York  if  it  prove  any  thing  as  to  this  point,  shews  that 
his  conduct  was  approved  of  Nicholson  was  only  Lieut. 
Governor  of  New  York  to  act  in  Sr  Edmunds  absence 
from  New  York.]  Mr  Smith  is  sensible  of  the  weak- 
ness of  the  proofs  of  Sr  Edmund  Andros'  Tyrannical  dis- 
position from  any  thing  in  his  administration  in  New 
York  and  therefor  he  tells  us  it  ivas  through  want  of 
more  opportunities  to  shew  himself  in  his  true  light  an- 
other oblique  insidious  hint  and  positive  assertion.  Mr 
Smith  lays  the  stress  of  his  proofs  of  Sr  Edmunds 
Tyrannic  and  Sycophantic  disposition  on  the  New 
England  Historians.  No  doubt  their  being  of  the  same 
principles  with  himself  gives  them  the  greater  credit 
with  him ;  but  whether  his  own  History  will,  with 
people  of  different  principles  add  any  thing  to  their 
opinion  of  the  veracity  and  candour  of  independent 
Historians,  must  be  left  to  the  Judgement  of  the  Keaders. 
However  this  be,  it  is  certain  that  at  the  time  Sr  Ed- 
mund Andross  governed  the  people  of  New  England, 
they  were  zealous  republicans,  bigotted  independents, 
having  banished  all  others  of  different  religious  princi- 
ples from  among  them,  and  persecuted  some  of  them  to 
death.  They  were  enthusiastic  to  a  degree  as  appears 
from  their  public  proceedings  in  witchcraft.  To  all 
which  is  to  be  added  a  stiff  formal  behavior  different 
from  the  rest  of  mankind.  Among  such  a  people  it 
must  have  been  very  difficult  for  a  Gentleman  of  Sr 
Edmunds  education,  and  of  his  principles,  both  as  to 
religion  and  Politics,  to  behave  so  as  to  please  them ; 
for  moderation  often  gives  the  greatest  offence  to  bigots. 
If  it  be  considered  likewise,  that  as  Sr  Edmund  was  ap- 
pointed their  Governor,  in  consequence  of  their  having 
had  their  charter  vacated,  in  the  court  of  chancery  in 
England,  he  by  his  comeing  among  them,  at  that  time, 
must  be  received  with  great  disgust.  He  must  be  a 
very  extraordinary  man   indeed,  who,  in  his    circum- 


190  THE    GOLDEN    LETTERS 

stances,  could  at  all  times  keep  his  temper  among  such 
a  people.  These  things  I  only  observe  in  general  ;  for  I 
am,  in  no  shape  informed  of  -the  particulars  of  Sr 
Edmunds  administration  at  Boston.  The  Revolution 
opened  a  wide  door  for  the  People  of  New  England  to 
make  their  complaints  and  to  expose  Sr  Ednmnds  char- 
acter in  the  strongest  colours  ;  yet  notwithstanding  of 
this  K  William  and  his  ministers,  soon  afterward,  ap- 
pointed Sr  Edmund  Andross  Governor  of  Virginia  a 
more  lucrative  government  than  New  York,  and  Massa- 
chusetts Bay  together.  [Where  he  distinguished  him- 
self by  putting  the  Secretaries  Office  and  the  Records  in 
good  order  which  before  he  came  had  been  in  the  great- 
est confusion.  This  certainly  shew'd  that  he  had  a  re- 
gard to  the  properties  of  the  people  whom  he  governed 
to  have  them  secured  for  he  had  no  personal  interest  in 
it  On  the  whole  of  this  character  of  Sr  Edmund 
Andross  I  shall  leave  it  to  the  reflections  of  any  impar- 
tial reader  how  far  the  sacred  laws  of  truth  have  been 
infringed  neither  by  positive  assertions  oblique  insidious 
hints  willful  suppressions  or  corrupt  misrepresentatio7is. 
When  a  man  of  candour  finds  a  gentlemans  charac- 
ter aspersed  with  such  odious  epithets  as  A.rbitrary 
Tyrant^  Sycophantic  tool  <fec,  without  proof  to  support 
them,  he  cannot  avoid  to  have  his  indignation  raised,  and 
thereby  a  quite  contrary  efi^ect  is  produced  from  what  the 
Historian  designed.  From  any  thing  I  can  learn  in 
Mr.  Smiths  History  of  Sr  Edmunds  Administration  in 
New  York  (for  I  disregard  Positive  Assertions)  Sr  Ed- 
mund was  a  good  Governor  It  is  a  public  Injury  to 
have  a  good  Governor  represented  as  the  worst. 

My  Dear  Son  Take  special  care  that  you  be  never 
provoked  to  asperse  any  man^s  character  and  to  repre- 
sent any  man  as  a  bad  man  without  the  clearest  evidence  ; 
for  it  often  happens  that  the  Authors  of  Calumny  only 
expose  themselves  with  men  of  candour,  and  thereby  dis- 
cover the  badness  of  their  oivii  hearts  in  a  manner  that 
could  not  otherwise  be  don.  It  is  of  use  to  reflect  how 
often  we  ourselves  have  don  amiss  and  that  under  some 


ON  smith's  history.  191 

circumstances  good  men  have  don  what  they  ought  not 
to  have  don.  Remember  what  I  now  write  is  only  for 
your  own  private  use,  and  that  at  my  age,  I  am  un- 
willing to  set  dogs  a  barking.  The  noise  of  Discords  is 
more  than  ever  disagreable  to  the  ear  of 

Your  Affectionate  Father 
Cadwallader  Golden 


There  is  only  one  thing  more  to  remark  in  the  His- 
tory of  New  York  before  the  Revolution  it  is  this  Mr 
Smith  takes  notice  of  the  advantageous  turn  in  Coll 
Dongans  administration  in  favour  of  the  Liberties  of  the 
People  by  his  calling  an  Assembly  the  Representatives 
of  the  People  for  enacting  of  Laws.  How  comes  it  that 
these  laws  are  absolutely  disregarded  since  the  Revolu- 
tion. It  is  certain  that  the  acts  of  Parliament  under 
James  the  Second  remainVl  as  much  in  force  as  those  un- 
der any  of  his  predecessors  or  successors.  How  comes  it 
that  the  Acts  of  Assembly  under  his  governor  are  not 
of  the  same  force  as  those  under  an}^  other  of  the  King's 
Governors  I  expected  he  would  have  answered  this  as  a 
Lawyer  for  it  is  as  material  as  many  things  he  has  par- 
ticularly observed  but  he  is  absolutely  silent  on  this 
head  The  only  answer  I  can  give  to  it  is  That  when 
Laws  are  made  inconsistent  with  the  well  being  of  any 
community  no  Authority  can  keep  them  in  force.  They 
become  Felo's  de  se*  One  of  them  I  have  been  told 
gave  a  perpetual  Revenue  and  that  Avas  thought  suffi- 
cient to  destroy  all  the  rest  If  I  mistake  not  such  incon- 
sistent with  the  good  of  the  People  are  to  be  found 
among  the  English  Statutes  entirely  in  disuse  tho'  not  re- 
pealed but  I  question  that  their  Malignancy  was  des- 

*  The  Scotch  ITistorians  tell  us  that  the  heads  of  Clans  had  hy  Law  the  first 
night  of  their  Tenants  Bride  and  That  this  Lnw  remains  unrepealed  because 
of  its  being  so  shameful  iu  itself.  Mr  Smith  tells  us  Coll.  Dongau  was  a  good 
governor  and  liud  the  Interest  of  the  People  at  heart  from  whence  came 
these  bad  Laws  which  are  to  be  sunk  in  oblivion  from  the  Representatives 
of  the  People. 


192  THE    GOLDEN    LETTERS 

tructive  of  all  the  other  Statutes  however  beneficial  they 
might  be  which  were  enacted  in  the  same  Reign. 


OADWALLADER  GOLDEN  TO  HIS  SON. 

Coldengham,  Sept.  25,  1759. 

Dear  Son, 

You  know  that  since  my  last  to  you  on  the 
subject  of  Mr  Smiths  history  of  New  York  my 
thoughts  have  been  diverted  to  other  matters.  I  shall 
now  begin  where  I  proposed  in  my  last  in  making  re- 
marks on  that  part  of  it  where  I  had  many  opportuni- 
ties of  being  well  informed. 

I  know  not  on  what  authority  Mr  Smith  says  that 
Mr  Hunter  when  a  boy  was  put  aprentice  to  an  Apothe- 
cary it  may  be  on  as  slender  authority  as  many  other 
things  he  writes.  When  I  knew  Mr  Hunter  he  was  an 
exceedingly  well  shaped  and  well  proportioned  man 
tho'  then  advanced  in  years.  In  his  younger  years  he 
had  been  of  uncommon  strength  and  activity.  He  un- 
derstood the  Belles  lettres  well  and  had  an  intimacy  with 
the  distinguished  men  of  wit  at  that  time  in  England 
among  them  Dr  Arbuthnot  Queen  Annes  favorite 
physician  was  his  most  intimate  a,nd  useful  friend  tho' 
he  and  the  doctor  differed  greatly  in  their  political  senti- 
ments for  Mr  Hunter  was  a  Stanch  Whig.  He  wrote 
some  pieces  in  the  Tatlers.  When  he  was  appointed  Gov- 
ernor of  New  York  a  very  high  compliment  was  made 
in  one  ot  the  Tatlers  to  him  under  the  name  of  Ehora- 
censis.  He  wrote  some  elegant  little  pieces  in  poetry 
which  never  appeared  in  his  name  He  had  an  exceeding 
pretty  and  entertaining  manner  of  telling  a  Tale  and 
was  a  most  agreable  companion  with  his  intimate 
friends.  He  was  fond  of  men  of  Learning  and  encouraged 
them  whenever  he  had  opportunity.  In  short  he  was 
a  Gentleman  of  extraordinary  abilities  both  natural  and 
acquired  and  had  every  qualification  requisite  in  a  Gov- 
ernor. 


ON  smith's  history.  193 

The  first  appearance  Mr  Hunter  made  in  tlie  world 
was  at  the  Revolution  as  one  of  the  gentlemen  who  served 
as  a  guard  under  the  Bishop  of  London  to  the  Princess 
Anne  when  she  retired  from  her  fathers  court  and  he  soon 
afterwards  received  a  commission  in  King  William's 
army  He  continued  in  the  army  all  King  William's 
wars  and  Queen  Annes  till  after  the  battle  of  Ramillies 
in  which  time  he  gave  many  proofs  of  high  courage. 

One  winter  when  part  of  the  Duke  of  Marlboroughs 
army  was  quartered  in  Holland  Mr  Hunter  was  Lt 
Colonel  and  Commandant  of  the  troops  quartered  in  one 
of  their  towns.  The  magistrates  of  this  town  had  so  far 
incurred  the  displeasure  of  the  people  of  the  town  that 
nothing  would  satisfy  them  but  the  deposition  of  their 
magistrates  by  a  new  election.  The  magistrates  found 
they  could  not  by  their  interest  prevent  this  and  were 
become  very  uneasy  and  afFrayd  and  therefor  applied 
to  Coll  Hunter  to  hinder  the  assembling  of  the 
people  for  that  purpose  representing  to  him  that  they 
had  allwise  been  zealous  in  the  interest  of  the  confed- 
eracy and  that  if  new  magistrates  should  be  chosen  they 
would  be  in  an  opposite  interest  as  Coll  Hunter  knew 
that  it  was  dangerous  foi'  the  soldiery  to  interfere  in  the 
civil  government  of  the  Republic  he  wrote  to  the  Duke 
of  Marlborough  for  instructions.  The  Duke  was  cautious 
in  his  answer  but  by  it  the  Colonel  understood  that  the 
Duke  would  be  well  pleased  to  have  the  election  pre- 
vented. Notwithstanding  all  the  efforts  of  the  Magis- 
trates the  towns  people  at  last  met  in  the  great  Church 
to  proceed  to  a  new  election  Coll  Hunter  called  the 
Regiment  together  privately  without  beat  of  drum  and 
marched  them  towards  the  great  church  and  when  he 
was  near  it  ordered  all  the  Drums  to  beat  The  grana- 
diers  march.  This  so  frightened  the  people  in  the  church 
that  they  rushed  out  by  the  doors  and  ^vind(n^'s 
in  the  greatest  fright  and  confusion.  Many  were 
bruised  and  lamed  and  an  end  thereby  put  to  the 
attempt  for  a  new  election.  Colonel  Hunter  marched 
the  regiment  past  the  church  (without  taking  the  least 
13 


194  THE    GOLDEN    LETTERS 

notice  of  what  passed)  to  the  place  where  the  Reghnent 
usually  [)erforme(l  their  exercise.  When  after  they  had 
gone  through  their  usual  exercise  he  dismissed  them. 

At  the  battle  of  Ramillies  Mr  Hunter  was  one  of  the 
Duke  of  Marlboroughs  Aid  de  Camps.  In  the  time  of 
the  battle  Mr  Cadogan  as  from  the  Duke  ordered  Col- 
onel Hunter  to  go  to  the  General  of  the  horse  on  the 
right  and  order  him  to  carry  all  the  horse  from  the 
right  and  join  the  horse  on  the  left  and  immediately  at- 
tack the  French  horse.  This  was  such  an  extraordinary 
order  that  Mr  Hunter  thought  proper  to  repeat  it  aloud 
in  the  hearing  of  several  officers  and  asked  if  this  was  his 
Graces  order  to  which  Mr  Cadogan  answered  yes.  When 
Mr  Hunter  delivered  these  orders  to  the  General  of  the 
horse  on  the  left  he  seemed  surprised  and  after  a  little 
hesitation  swore  he  would  leave  one  regiment  which  he 
did  and  then  put  the  orders  he  had  received  in  execution 
To  this  it  is  agreed  by  all  both  English  and  French 
that  the  Victory  was  principally  owing  But  what  is 
still  more  remarkable  is  that  Mr  Hunter  believed  as  he 
told  me  that  Mr  Cadogan  had  given  the  orders  as  from 
the  Duke  without  the  Duke's  privity  and  what  makes 
this  the  more  probable  is  that  the  Duke  about  that 
time  was  born  down  dismounted  and  for  some  time 
in  great  danger  so  that  he  was  not  in  a  capacity  to  give 
orders  * 

This  was  such  a  signal  piece  of  service  in  Mr  Cado- 
gan without  takeing  the  least  honour  of  it  to  himself  that 
the  Duke  remained  ever  after  very  sensible  of  it.  He 
therefore  resolved  to  give  Mr  Cadogan  the  honour  of 
takeing  Antwerp  the  most  considerable  city  in  Flanders 
and  for  that  purpose  the  Duke  gave  him  the  command 
of  that  part  of  the  army  which  was  to  form  the  siege  and 
Mr  Hunter  had  the  command  of  the  horse  which  were  to 
invest  the  place  while  the  foot  were  on  their  march. 
When  Mr  Hunter  came  before  the  town  some  of  the 
French  officers  came  out  to  parley.     While  he  was  in 

*  Mr  Huntei-  tliis  day  tired  out  four  horses  in  the  execution  of  his  duty. 


ON  smith's  history.  195 

discourse  witli  them  and  persuading  them  to  surrender 
as  they  could  hope  for  no  relief,  a  merchant  of  the  town 
came  behind  Mr  Hunter  and  pulled  him  by  the  sleeve. 
Mr  Hunter  turned  and  went  aside  with  the  merchant 
S""  said  the  merchant  it  is  to  no  purpose  to  talk  with 
these  men  but  I  believe  you  may  have  better  success  with 
the  Spanish  Governor  who  commands  in  the  citadel. 
Mr  Hunter  asked  by  what  means  he  could  come  to  treat 
with  the  Spanish  Governor  The  merchant  answered 
that  the  Spanish  governor  is  a  good  natured  man  and 
entirely  directed  by  his  Secretary  and  added  if  you  will 
give  me  leave  I  will  bring  the  Secretary  to  you.  The 
method  of  doing  it  was  immediately  settled.  By  the 
Secretary's  means  Mr  Hunter  had  a  private  conference 
with  the  Spanish  Governor  and  the  terms  agreed  to  viz : 
that  the  Spanish  Governor  should  be  continued  Governor 
of  Antwerp  under  K.  Charles  and  that  the  Secretary 
should  have  one  of  the  Spanish  regiments  then  in  garri- 
son. Mr  Hunter  informed  the  Dake,  by  express,  of 
these  terms  and  he  readily  confirmed  them.  The  French 
having  discovered  that  the  Spanish  Governor  was  re- 
solved to  admit  the  English  troops  into  the  citadel  they 
likewise  capitulated  for  the  town  before  the  army  under 
Mr  Cadogan  could  come  up  to  form  the  siege.  After 
everything  had  been  settled  Mr  Hunter  highly  pleased 
with  the  service  he  had  done  went  to  wait  on  the  Duke 
but  was  surprised  to  be  received  very  coolly.  S''  said  the 
Duke  I  think  you  might  have  trusted  to  me  to  publish 
the  service  you  have  done  Mr  Hunter  protested  that  he 
had  not  either  by  word  or  writing  mentioned  anything 
of  it  to  any  person  living  and  added  as  this  affair  could 
not  be  carried  on  without  the  privity  of  several  of  the 
officers  who  were  along  with  him  he  could  not  answer 
for  what  they  may  have  done  But  as  the  Dake  hereby 
was  disapointed  in  the  honour  he  designed  for  his  favorite 
Mr  Cadogan  he  resented  it  on  Mr  Hunter  Perhaps  the 
Duke  thought  that  Mr  Hunter  was  too  much  in  the 
secret  of  what  gained  the  victory  at  Ramillies  and  was 
chagrined  on  that  account     Mr  Hunter  was  highly  dis- 


196  THE    COLDEN    LETTERS 

gusted  on  such  treatment  after  so  signal  service  and 
thereupon  left  the  army  in  the  winter  and  went  over  to 
London. 

Here  you  have  some  material  anecdotes  in  history 
which  T  think  are  not  to  be  found  in  any  thing  which  is 
printed,  but  they  may  be  depended  upon  for  I  had  them 
from  Mr  Hunters  mouth  with  every  particular  circum- 
stance which  attended  them  which  would  be  too  tedious 
to  relate  here  and  I  cannot  sufliciently  depend  on  my 
memory 

Mr  Hunter  had  friends  in  Queen  Amies  court  and 
by  their  interest  he  obtained  the  government  of  Virginia 
Mr  Smith  mistakes  when  he  says  that  he  was  appointed 
L*  Governor  of  Virginia  Mr  Hunter  had  the  commis- 
sion of  Governor  in  Chief  but  it  was  by  a  compromise 
with  the  Earl  of  Orkney  He  w^as  taken  jDrisoner  by  a 
French  squadron  in  his  passage  to  Virginia  and  carried 
to  France  By  his  having  lost  the  Duke  of  Marlboroughs 
favour  he  could  not  easily  obtain  an  exchange.  He  had 
leave  to  return  to  England  on  his  parole  to  solicit  his 
exchange  and  at  last  was  exchanged  for  the  Bishop  of 
Quebec  after  he  had  returned  to  Paris. 

The  Duke  of  Marlborough's  influence  over  the  Queen 
began  about  this  time  to  lessen  and  Dr  Arbuthnot  pre- 
vailed with  the  Queen  to  name  Mr  Hunter  for  the  gov- 
ernment of  Jamaica  wdiich  happened  to  be  vacant  with- 
out consulting  her  Ministry  who  had  designed  that 
government  for  another  but  Mr  Hunter  being  apprehen- 
sive that  if  he  w^ent  to  Jamaica  against  the  inclinations 
of  the  ministry  he  would  be  made  uneasy  in  his  govern- 
ment and  the  government  of  New  York  becoming  vacant 
at  this  time  by  the  death  of  Lord  Lovelace  the  Ministers 
were  willing  that  he  should  have  the  Government  of  New 
York  therefor  Mr  Hunter  desired  his  friend  to  inform 
the  Queen  that  he  would  rather  have  the  government  of 
New  York  than  Jamaica  and  it  was  accordingly  granted 
him. 

As  Mr  Hunter  was  without  doubt  a  man  of  the 
greatest  abilities  that  ever  governed  New  York  I  think 


ON  smith's  history.  197 

the  relating  these  most  remarkable  incidents  in  his  life 
previous  to  his  having  the  government  may  serve  to 
illustrate  his  character  and  this  is  a  proper  period  to  put 
an  end  to  this  letter  before  I  begin  an  account  of  his 
government  which  if  I  continue  in  a  humour  to  write, 
you  may  soon  expect  from, 


OADWALLADER  GOLDEN"  TO  HIS  SOK 

I  intend  now  to  write  most  remarkable  parts  or  inci- 
dents in  Mr  Hunters  administration  which  at  this  time 
occur  to  my  memory.  About  the  time  Mr  Hunter  was 
appointed  Governor  of  New  York  a  great  number  of 
Germans  were  encouraoed  to  come  over  to  Eno-land 
The  ministiy  thought  it  might  be  of  public  advantage 
to  send  over  a  number  of  them  with  Mr  Hunter  to  be 
employed  in  makeing  of  Pitch  and  Tar.  They  were  trans- 
ported at  the  charge  of  the  Government  and  finniished 
Avith  large  Iron  Kettles  and  other  necessaries  for  that  pur- 
pose. Mr  Hunter  was  to  subsist  them  and  to  draw  on 
the  Treasury  for  all  necessary  expenses  Mr  Hunter  after 
his  arriA^al  employed  them  accordingly  and  drew  bills  on 
the  treasury  for  the  expense.  But  the  Queen  having 
changed  the  ministry  and  the  new  ministry  endeavoring 
to  make  every  measure  of  their  predecessors  as  far  as 
they  could  unpopular  this  of  importing  and  employing 
foreigners  was  exposed  to  censure  and  among  other  things 
that  it  contributed  to  put  the  church  in  danger  which  at 
that  time  was  the  popular  cry.  The  Treasury  refused  to 
pay  Mr  Hunters  bills  and  absolutely  disapproved  of  the 
agreement  made  with  the  Germans  for  their  settling  the 
Colony  of  New  York.  This  put  Mr  Hunter  under  great 
difficulties  in  the  beginning  of  his  administration  as  all  his 
bills  were  protested  and  he  became  personally  liable  for 
the  payment  and  discredited  him  with  the  people  of  the 
province  The  Germans  looked  to  him  only  for  their 
subsistence  and  for  the  performance  of  the  other  parts  of 


198  THE    GOLDEN    LETTERS 

the  agreement  made  with  them.  Their  chimours  were 
for  some  time  abated  by  Mr  Hunter  s  inlisting  a  consid- 
erable number  of  them  into  the  forces  that  were  raised  on 
the  expedition  at  that  time  intended  agt  Canada.  After 
this  enterprise  ended  unsuccessfully  these  Germans  were 
disbanded  and  suffered  to  take  their  arms  with  them. 
Now  they  not  only  became  more  clamorous  but  became 
also  mutinous. 

Mr  Hunter  in  his  return  from  Albany  where  he  met 
the  Five  nations  of  Indians  to  compose  their  minds  after 
their  disappointment  by  their  failure  of  the  enterprise 
against  Canada  in  Avhich  they  had  been  engaged  stopt  at 
Mr  Livingstons  house  near  to  which  these  Germans  were 
settled.  The  principal  men  among  them  came  to  him 
and  demanded  the  performance  of  the  promises  which 
had  been  made  them.  Mr  Hunter  for  some  time  reasoned 
the  matter  with  them  by  informing  them  of  the  reason  of 
their  disappointment  and  how  he  had  suffered  more  than 
they  had  with  a  promise  of  using  his  best  endeavors  to 
obtain  them  satisfaction  but  they  continued  turbulent 
and  he  was  at  the  same  time  informed  that  a  great  num- 
ber of  the  Germans  were  together  arrived  in  an  adjoining 
Avood 

With  some  difficulty  he  put  them  oft'  for  two  days 
with  a  promise  to  think  of  some  method  to  give  them 
satisfaction  and  an  answer  on  the  morning  of  the  third. 
Mr  Hunter  immediately  sent  an  express  to  Albany  which 
is  forty  miles  distant  from  the  place  where  he  was  with 
orders  to  the  commanding  officer  to  press  sloops  to  carry 
down  immediately  the  two  independent  companies  which 
were  posted  there.  They  arrived  in  the  night  before  the 
time  Mr  Hunter  was  to  meet  the  Germans.  The  officer 
was  ordered  to  land  his  men  and  keep  them  together 
under  the  bank  of  the  river  near  the  house  without  shew- 
ing themselves  and  on  a  signal  to  be  given  to  march 
them  up  briskly  to  the  house  with  drums  beating  The 
principal  men  of  the  Germans  came  as  appointed  and  at 
the  same  time  the  others  shew'd  themselves  at  a  distance 
in  a  body  armed.     Mr  Hunter  did  not  now  treat  them 


ON  smith's  history.  199 

Avitli  all  the  complaisance  he  did  before  and  one  of  them 
beoinninii'  to  bluster  with  threatenino-  lanouao'e  the  signal 
was  made  for  the  soldiers  to  march.  The  Governor  with 
his  own  hands  seized  the  fellow  who  had  threatened  him 
and  some  other  gentlemen  who  were  with  hhn  seized  the 
rest.  Upon  the  appearance  of  the  soldiers  the  Germans 
without  doors  immediately  departed  some  of  them  dis- 
charging their  pieces  as  they  went  off.  The  soldiers 
marched  directly  into  the  German  village  and  disarmed 
them. 

Mr  Hunter  has  been  much  blamed  in  respect  to  the 
Germans  as  if  he  had  broke  the  promise  made  them 
whereas  the  breach  was  by  the  Ministry  and  Mr  Hunter 
was  really  a  fellow  sufferer  with  the  Germans.  But 
after  this  riotous  behavior  with  design  to  force  a  compli- 
ance hy  seizing  the  Governor's  person  he  thought  it  im- 
prudent and  unbecoming  in  him  to  give  them  encourage- 
ment. 

Governor  Burnet  afterwards  gave  lands  to  many  of 
the  Germans.  They  in  general  have  proved  industrious 
useful  members  in  the  society  and  orderly.  But  Avhen 
numbers  of  people  think  they  have  injustice  done  them 
and  have  not  legal  means  within  their  reach  for  redress 
they  commonly  and  naturally  become  mutinous  and  fly 
to  force.  This  has  been  the  true  reason  of  the  cruel  wars 
with  Indians  lately  and  perhaps  at  all  times. 

Mr  Smith  makes  such  mention  of  Col  Peter  Schuy- 
ler on  several  occasions  tliat  had  you  known  him  as  I  did 
you  would  pay  little  regard  to  Mr  Smiths  characters 
whether  in  panegyric  or  Satyre.  Col  Schuyler  was  a  plain 
country  farmer  who  had  on  some  occasions  given  proof 
of  his  courage.  This  with  strong  connexions  between 
that  family  and  some  of  the  Mohawk  tribe  gave  him  a 
considerable  interest  with  the  Mohawks  but  as  to  the 
other  tribes  it  was  in  no  respect  such  as  Mr  Smith  rep- 
resents it.  His  whole  exterior  and  deportment  had 
much  of  the  Indian  mixed  with  the  sullen  Dutch  man- 
ner. He  was  no  way  distinguished  by  abilities  either 
natural  or  acquired  and  you  may  Judge  of  his  sense  of 


200  THE    GOLDEN    LETTERS 

honour  by  his  being  prevailed  on  by  Mr  Nicholson  to 
join  with  him  in  the  grossest  imposition  on  the  Queen 
and  the  British  Nation  by  carrying  to  England  five  or 
six  common  Indians  and  making  them  personate  one  the 
Emperor  of  the  Five  Nations  and  the  others  the  kings 
of  each  nation.  He  might  have  paid  dear  for  such  an 
attempt  had  it  not  been  that  the  Ministry  were  at  that 
time  fond  of  amuseing  the  people  with  the  eclat  of  such 
an  appearance  at  court  for  they  might  easily  have  been 
informed  if  they  knew  it  not  that  there  is  no  such  thing 
among  the  Five  Nations  as  either  emperor  or  king.  The 
Five  Nations  so  far  resented  it  that  they  never  afterwards 
would  suffer  one  of  these  Indians  to  appear  in  their  pub- 
lic councils.  I  saw  several  years  after  this  one  of  these 
Indians  standing  at  a  distance  among  the  women  and 
young  men  while  the  Five  Nations  were  at  a  public  con- 
ference with  the  Governor  of  New  York.  As  I  have  no 
thoughts  of  mentioning  any  thing  particularly  of  the 
Indians  dureing  Mr  Hunters  administration  it  may  be 
proper  to  observe  that  he  had  so  great  a  diflEidence  of  all 
the  people  at  Albany  that  at  the  public  meetings  with 
the  Indians  he  had  allwise  a  French  woman  standing  by 
him  who  had  married  one  of  our  Indians  to  inform  him 
whether  the  interpreters  had  done  their  part  truely  be- 
tween him  and  the  Indians,  notwithstanding  that  Col. 
Schuyler  was  present  at  the  same  time.  This  woman 
commonly  called  Madame  Montour  had  a  good  educa- 
tion in  Canada  before  she  went  among  the  Indians  and 
was  very  usetuill  to  Mr  Hunter  on  many  occasions  for 
which  reason  she  had  a  pension  and  was  sometimes  ad- 
mitted to  his  table  in  her  Indian  dress  It  is  certain  that 
the  Indians  have  had  at  all  times  great  diffidence  in  the 
Interpreters  being  allwise  taken  from  among  the  traders 
who  make  a  practice  in  deceiving  the  Indians. 

Queen  Anne  changed  her  ministry  soon  after  the  time 
that  Mr.  Hunter  arrived  in  his  Government  and  he 
thereby  lost  the  support  of  his  best  friends.  Mr.  Hun- 
ter was  far  from  being  a  high  churchman  in  principle 
Mr.  Nicholson  was  a  Zealous  church  man  in  the  hiohest 


ON  smith's  history.  201 

sense  of  the  word  and  at  that  time  when  The  Church  be- 
came the  jjopular  cry  and  M^as  the  political  ingine  of  the 
ministerial  faction,  he  was  thought  a  proper  person  to 
be  employed  and  received  a  commission  to  command 
the  provincial  forces  which  were  to  attack  Canada  by 
land  while  the  Forces  from  England  attacked  it  by  way 
of  St.  Laurence  river  tho'  he  had  nothing  to  recommend 
him  for  that  service  besides  his  zeal  for  the  church  for  he 
was  not  bred  a  soldier  nor  had  he  seen  any  military  ser- 
vice which  deserved  the  name.  He  was  subject  to  ex- 
cessive fits  of  passion  so  far  as  to  loose  the  use  of  his 
reason  After  he  had  been  in  one  of  these  fits  while  he 
had  the  command  of  the  army  an  Indian  said  to  one  of  the 
officers  The  general  is  drunk  no  answered  the  officers  he 
never  drinks  any  strong  liquor.  The  Indian  replied  I 
do  not  mean  that  he  is  drunk  with  rum  He  was  born 
drunk. 

The  greatest  number  of  the  inhabitants  of  New- York 
were  at  that  time  of  republican  principles  consisting  of 
Dutch  and  English  Independents.  The  assemblies  are 
at  all  times  fond  of  power  and  to  have  their  Governor 
dependent  on  them  tho'  they  cover  this  view  with  differ- 
ent pretences.  At  this  time  the  Church  clergy  joined 
in  the  design  to  distress  the  Governor  in  hopes  of  have- 
ing  the  good  churchman  Col  Nicholson  appointed 
governor.  He  had  a  crowd  of  clergymen  all  wise  about 
him  who  were  continually  extolling  his  merits  among 
the  people  and  doing  all  in  their  power  to  lessen  Mr 
Hunter.  Mr  Hunter  had  then  a  hard  task.  His  friends 
in  the  ministry  out  of  place  his  Bills  to  a  great  value 
protested.  Mr  Nicholson  and  the  Clergy  who  ought  to 
have  assistec\  him  endeavoring  to  undermine  him  and 
the  assembly  refusing  to  grant  any  support  on  the  terms 
on  which  he  could  accept  of  it  without  breach  of  his  in- 
structions. Tho'  he  was  at  the  same  time  so  sensible  of 
the  difficulties  he  was  under  as  to  say  to  some  of  his 
friends  that  he  expected  to  dye  in  a  Jail  he  kept  up  his 
spirits  never  suffered  the  least  dejection  or  diffidence  of 
his  affiiirs  to  appear  in  public.     He  kept  up  the  dignity 


202 


THE    GOLDEN    LETTERS 


of  the  Governor  without  lessening  the  expence  which 
attended  it  not^vithstanding  of  the  difficulties  he  was  under 
as  to  money.  At  this  time  ^vhile  Mr.  Hunter  had  the 
greatest  reason  to  be  shagreened  and  out  of  humour  he 
diverted  himself  in  composing  a  Farce  with  the  assistance 
of  Mr  Morris  which  he  called  Androhorus  (the  man 
eater)  In  this  the  general  (Nicholson)  the  clergy  and 
the  assembly  were  so  humorously  exposed  that  the 
laugh  was  turned  upon  them  in  all  conijjanies  and  from 
this  laughing  humour  the  people  began  to  be  in  good 
humour  with  their  Governor  and  to  despise  the  idol  of  the 
clergy. 

A  Violent  party  spirit  had  been  kept  up  with  great 
animosity  between  those  who  joined  with  Leisler  at 
the  Revolution  and  the  others  who  opposed  him.  They 
who  were  in  opposition  to  Leisler  generally  had  the 
greatest  influence  in  the  assembly,  and  were  in  favour 
vnth  all  the  succeeding  Governors  except  the  earl  of 
Bellomont  and  Lt.  Governor  Nanfan.  In  the  year  1713 
Leislers  party  had  a  J^Iajority  m  the  Assembly.  There 
were  great  complaints  from  numbers  of  people  by  their 
want  of  payment  for  public  services  The  Leisler  party 
thought  they  had  been  unjustly  used  by  preceeding  As- 
semblies and  therefor  they  took  this  opportunity  of 
doing  themselves  justice.  When  the  assembly  after  hav- 
ing granted  a  revenue  for  five  years  resolved  to  pay  all 
the  Debts  of  the  Government  by  striking  Bills  of  Credit 
for  that  purpose  to  the  value  of  27680  pounds  to  be  sunk 
in  twenty  one  years  by  an  Excise  on  strong  liquors 

In  this  Bill  payment  was  made  for  services  don  in 
the  year  1687  and  for  services  don  in  every  year  from 
that  time  downward.  Leislers  son  had  2025  pounds 
allowed  him  for  his  fathers  services  and  expenses  at  the 
time  of  the  revolution  and  most  of  his  adherents  had 
allowances  made  to  them.  Wni  Smith  put  in  a  de- 
mand of  356  pounds  17s  lOd^  for  goods  taken  b}'  force 
li-om  Gabriel  Minvielle  by  Leisler  and  the  assembly 
gave  six  pence  in  full  of  all  demands.  From  the  pro- 
ceedings at  this  time  this  conclusion  I  think  may  be  fairly 


ON  smith's  history.  203 

drawn  That  either  former  assemblies  had  been  unjust 
in  refuseing  or  neglecting  to  pay  just  debts  so  long  due 
or  this  assembly  acted  profusely  in  giveing  away  their 
constituent's  money  in  favour  to  their  friends.  Or  per- 
ha])s  the  former  assemblies  and  this  all  of  them  acted 
partially  and  more  from  favour  or  resentment  than  from 
justice.  Governor  Hunter  had  all  his  demands  paid  In 
the  act  it  was  declared  that  as  public  notice  had  been 
made  for  every  one  to  make  his  demands  who  had  any 
claim  on  the  Government  that  all  the  joublick  debts  were 
paid  and  that  no  claim  for  any  past  service  should  after 
this  be  allowed.  We  shall  soon  see  how  well  this  was 
observed.  But  by  a  clause  in  the  act  the  Bills  were 
not  to  be  issued  until  the  act  received  the  Koyal  ap- 
probation. 

On  the  Queens  death  the  assembly  was  dissolved  and 
a  new  assembly  called  in  which  the  superiority  of  the 
Leisler  party  was  greater  than  in  the  former  assembly 
and  resolved  to  make  up  for  the  suffering  of  their  party 
while  the  opposite  faction  had  been  so  long  in  power. 
They  therefore  resolved  in  contradiction  to  the  former 
act  that  many  debts  and  services  were  left  unpaid  and 
rewarded  by  that  act  which  were  as  justly  due  as  those 
which  were  paid  (Here  they  confirm  the  observation  I 
before  made)  and  passed  a  bill  which  was  afterwards 
enacted  for  issuing  bills  to  the  value  of  41517  ounces  and 
a  half  of  Spanish  coined  plate  or  of  16607  pounds  Cur- 
rent money  of  New  York  at  8s  p  ounce  as  Spanish  mone}' 
at  that  time  passed  for  the  sinking  and  paying  of  which 
the  Excise  on  strong  Liquors  was  continued  from  1734 
to  1739  and  a  Duty  was  laid  on  wine  and  spirits  for 
seventeen  years  from  the  time  of  passing  the  act. 

All  who  had  served  under  Leisler  as  soldiers  or  other- 
wise were  paid  for  their  services  and  many  others  for 
services  since  the  year  1687  Each  of  the  Council  had 
250  ounces  each  of  the  Assembly  from  183  ounces  to 
275  The  Governor  had  2525  ounces  17  pennyweight  and 
a  half  for  incidents  and  extraordinary  disbursements  They 
calculated  to  half  a  penny  weight  in  the  allowance  to 


204  THE    COI.DEN   LETTERS 

the  Governor  to  shew  how  carefull  they  had  been  not  to 
allow  him  a  half  penny  weight  too  much  But  the  lead- 
ing men  in  the  council  and  assembly  besides  the  common 
allowance  with  some  of  their  friends  had  considerable 
payments  made  them  generally  for  services  don  without 
mentioning  any  particular  service.  Mr  Livingston  had 
3710  ounces  of  plate.  I  believe  he  never  was  exceeded 
in  soliciting  for  himself,  by  any  man 

The  assembly  w^as  not  willing  to  trust  so  useful  an 
act  to  the  Royal  approbation  as  the  former  had  been, 
and  therefor  it  was  enacted  to  take  effect  immediately. 
Indeed  it  never  had  the  Royal  approbation.  In  the 
jn'eamble  to  the  first  act  the  assembly  say  that  the  debts 
of  the  Government  were  occasioned  by  misapplication  of 
the  funds  and  extravagant  expending  of  the  Revenue  by 
former  Governors.  Their  saying  so  w^ould  not  be  a  suffi- 
cient proof  to  any  man  that  knew  them.  I  have  known 
many  things  asserted  in  the  public  resolves  which  not 
one  of  the  leading  members  would  assert  to  be  truth 
when  singly  by  himself  There  has  been  a  mighty 
clamour  at  all  times  made  in  general  terms  of  the  mis- 
application of  public  money  by  Governors  but  when  they 
were  called  upon  to  give  particular  instances  I  never 
heai-d  of  any  except  of  £1500  pounds  granted  for  fort}'- 
lying  the  Narrows  on  the  river  below  New  York  which 
Lord  Cornbury  applied  to  building  a  pleasure  house  on 
Nutten  Island  for  himself  and  succeedino-  o-overnors  to 
retire  to  when  he  inclined  to  free  himself  from  business. 
But  I  believe  it  may  be  safely  asserted  that  all  the  ex- 
travagant expending  of  the  Revenue  by  the  Governors 
of  New  York  put  together  does  not  equal  the  profusion 
of  the  public  money  by  this  assembly.  Mr  Smith  passes 
slightly  over  this  extraordinary  act  of  his  favorite  part 
of  our  Constitution. 

Mr  Hunter  was  seized  with  a  violent  Rheumatism 
in  the  winter  of  the  year  1718  which  ended  in  an  obsti- 
nate sciatica  which  made  him  lame.  His  Lady  was 
heir  to  the  estate  of  Sr  Thomas  Orby  and  he  was  desirous 
to  secure  that  Estate  for  his  children  and  he  had  hopes 


ON  smith's  history.  205 

of  recovering  what  was  due  to  him  from  the  Treasury  on 
account  of  the  Germans.  But  as  he  foresaw  that  the 
leaving  his  Government  if  it  was  known  some  time  be- 
fore he  did,  might  give  occasion  to  intrigues  he  kept  his 
design  absolutely  secret  from  his  friends  and  domestics 
not  a  single  man  was  informed  of  it  till  he  communicated 
it  to  the  assembly  after  they  had  gone  through  the 
business  on  which  they  were  called.  You  may  see  by 
their  address  in  Mr  Smiths  History,  on  that  occasion, 
that  no  Governor  could  leave  his  Government  with 
greater  reputation  than  he  did.  I  cannot  forbear  to  tell 
you  what  he  heard  him  say  not  many  days  before  this 
address  with  indignation  in  his  countenance.  People 
think  it  a  fine  thing  to  be  a  governor.     A  governor  by 

a  Tom  Turdman's  is  a  better  office  than  to  rake  in 

the  dunghill  of  these  peoples  vile  affections.  You  know 
that  the  assemblies  in  North  America  consist  generally 
of  a  low  rank  of  people  who  have  no  generous  principles. 
But  it  was  much  worse  at  that  time  Several  of  the 
assembly  were  dutch  boors  grossly  ignorant  and  rude  who 
could  neither  write  or  read  nor  speak  English.  This 
puts  me  in  mind  of  what  happened  to  me  some  years 
since  I  was  at  Newport  in  Rhode  Island  at  the  time  of 
their  anniversary  election  of  their  Magistrates.  I  was 
invited  to  a  public  entertainment  usually  given  on  that 
occasion.  After  dinner  one  of  the  new  elected  council 
while  we  sat  at  Table  addressed  himself  to  me  saying 
What  would  you  give  in  New  York  for  the  privilege  we 
enjoy  this  day  of  electing  all  our  officers  from  the  Gov- 
ernor to  the  constable.  I  begged  leave  to  put  a  question 
or  two  before  I  answered  and  then  I  asked  him  whether 
every  man  had  an  equal  vote  He  answered  yes  every  free 
man  has  an  equal  vote  with  the  richest  or  best  man  in 
the  colony.  I  next  asked  him  whether  the  election  is 
carried  by  majority  of  Votes  which  being  answered  in 
the  affirmative  I  again  asked  him  whether  the  greatest 
number  in  their  colony  were  wise  men  or  otherwise 
which  last  Question  produced  a  general  silence.  When 
Mr  Hunter  came  to  his  government  he  at  first  thought 


206  THE    GOLDEN    LETTERS 

that  an  American  Assembly  might  be  governed  by 
reason,  but  experience  taught  him  that  it  was  a  vain 
imagination.  It  may  be  a  question  whether  mankind 
in  general  can  be  governed  otherwise  than  by  their  affec- 
tions. For  that  reason  wise  legislators  found  means  to 
raise  artificial  affections  to  control  the  natural.  But 
my  dear  son  that  you  may  always  regulate  your  affec- 
tions by  reason  is  earnestly  recommended  to  you  by  your 
affectionate  Father 


OADWALLADER  GOLDEN  TO  HIS  SON. 

I  have  for  some  time  been  diverted  from  my  memoirs 
of  the  Government  of  New  York  I  now  return  to  them 
Col  Peter  Schuyler  as  president  of  the  council  succeeded 
in  the  administration  on  General  Hunters  going  to  Eng- 
land Col.  Schuyler  was  so  ^^eak  a  man  that  Adolph 
Phillipse  perswaded  him  to  lodge  the  Kings  seal  in  his 
hands  that  he  might  thereby  be  able  to  prevent  any  use 
to  be  made  of  it  without  his  consent.  By  the  Kings 
instructions  the  President  of  the  Council  was  to  receive 
one  half  of  the  Sallary  and  all  the  perquisites.  A  dis- 
pute arose  whether  the  word  half  did  not  extend  to  all 
the  perquisites  as  well  as  to  the  Sallary  In  cases  where  the 
perquisites  were  paid  into  the  Secretarys  office  one  half 
was  retained  for  the  use  of  the  Governor  but  when  Col 
Schuyler  received  the  perquisites  he  retained  the  whole 
for  his  own  use 

After  Mr  Burnet  was  appointed  Governor  he  was  in- 
formed of  this  dispute  relating  to  the  perquisites  and 
mentioned  it  to  one  of  the  Clerks  of  the  board  of  Trade 
and  Plantations  who  was  to  copy  the  Instructions  for 
l^Ir  Burnet.  On  looking  over  the  Instruction  he  told 
Mr  Burnet  that  it  was  easy  to  amend  it  and  without 
hesitation  he  ^vrote  m  the  instructions  to  Mr  Burnet 
One  half 

******* 

A  portion  of  the  original  MS.  is  missing. 


ON  smith's  history.  207 

and  the  practice  since  that  time  has  justified  this  last 
opinion.  The  very  persons  who  at  that  time  insisted  on 
the  illegality  of  continueing  an  assembly  after  the  deter- 
mination of  a  Governors  commission  who  called  them 
advised  the  continuance  of  the  assembly  in  the  sairie  cir- 
cumstances when  they  could  not  be  assured  of  having 
persons  in  the  same  interests  re-elected.  The  argument 
which  prevailed  with  Mr.  Burnet  to  continue  the  assem- 
bly was  this.  He  was  assured  that  the  members  of  that 
assembly  would  readily  grant  the  support  of  Government 
for  five  years,  and  tho'  the  gentlemen  who  wanted  a 
new  assembly  and  expected  to  be  chosen  gave  the  like 
assurances  he  thought  the  first  to  be  more  depended 
on  than  the  others  because  tho'  the  principal  persons 
might  with  some  confidence  expect  to  be  elected  for 
the  city  they  could  not  be  assured  of  the  generality  of 
the  countrj^  members  or  that  they  would  have  a  sufiicient 
interest  over  them  for  it  was  certain  that  some  of  the 
principal  men  in  the  opposite  interest  would  be  re- 
elected 

Mr  Smith  mistakes  when  he  says  that  Col  Schuyler 
and  Mr  Phillipse  were  removed  from  the  council  board 
because  they  had  opposed  in  council  the  continuance  of 
the  assembly     This  would  have  been  too  bold  a 

^  I;J  !jC  !jS  ^  JjC  ^ 

A  portion  of  the  original  MS.  is  missing. 

misrepresentation  of  the  case  between  Mr  Rou  and 
the  French  congregation.  On  reading  Mr  Smiths  ac- 
count of  this  affair  one  would  be  apt  to  imagine  that 
Mr  Burnet  had  set  up  a  high  commission  court  in  eccle- 
siastic matters  to  the  Jurisdiction  of  which  Mr  Smith's 
father  had  pleaded 

Mr  Kou's  case  was  this.  When  he  came  over  to  New- 
York  on  the  invitation  of  the  French  Protestants  there, 
he  and  some  gentlemen  trustees  for  the  French  congre- 
gation entered  into  a  mutual  contract  in  writing  he  to 
perform  the  duties  of  pastor  of  the  french  protestant 
congregation  of  New  York  according  to  the  rules  which 


208  THE    GOLDEN    LETTERS 

had  been  used  by  the  french  protestants  in  France  and  they 
in  consideration  of  his  services  engaged  yearly  to  pay 
him  a  certain  sum  of  money  Qf  this  contract  there  was 
only  one  authentic  copy  which  was  in  the  hands  of  the 
trustees.  Mr  E,ou  had  only  a  copy  of  it  without  any 
test  of  its  being  authentic  On  some  disputes  which 
happened  between  Mr  Rou  and  some  of  his  congrega- 
tion the  trustees  refused  to  pay  him  his  sallary  Mr  Rou 
insisted  that  he  had  don  his  duty  and  performed  his  part 
of  the  contract  but  as  he  had  no  legal  evidence  of  the 
contract  he  was  advised  to  sue  in  chancery  in  order  to 
oblige-  the  trustees  to  produce  the  contract.  Accordingly 
Mr  Rou  filed  a  Bill  in  chancery  wherein  he  demanded 
of  the  trustees  whether  they  or  any  of  them  knew  of  a 
contract  in  writing  entered  into  between  them  and  Mr 
Rou  and  if  they  did  to  discover  the  contents  of  that 
contract.  The  trustees  answered  on  oath  that  we  do  not 
know  of  any  such  contract.  It  is  to  be  observed  that 
since  the  making  of  that  contract  some  of  the  trustees  had 
been  changed.  Mr  Ron's  counsel  objected  to  the  suffi- 
ciency of  the  answer  alledging  that  they  ought  to  answer 
that  we  nor  no  one  of  us  knew  for  though  all  of  them  may 
not  know  one  or  more  of  them  did.  I  was  at  that  time 
a  master  in  chancery  and  it  was  referred  to  me  to  judge 
whether  the  answer  was  sufficient  After  a  tedious 
hearing  of  counsel  on  both  sides  I  said  that  on  suppo- 
sition that  some  of  the  Defendants  were  ignorant  of  the 
contract  while  others  knew  of  it,  I  could  not  conceive 
how  they  who  did  know  could  with  a  safe  conscience  join 
in  the  oath  that  they  (meaning  all  of  them)  did  not 
know  because  in  this  case  they  must  swear  to  the  other  s 
ignorance  which  I  thought  a  man  who  had  a  proper  re- 
gard to  an  oath  could  not  do  and  all  the  defendants  were 
men  of  good  reputation.  Upon  which  Mr  Alexander 
who  was  counsel  for  Mr  Rou  replied.  I  do  not  wonder 
S*"  that  you  should  be  of  this  opinion  but  pulling  out  a 
paper  from  his  pocket  he  said,  here  S'"  is  a  copy  of  the 
contract  in  the  hand  writing  of  one  of  these  gentlemen 
tho'  we  cannot  prove  it.     On  which  I  declared  the  an- 


ON  smith's  history.  209 

swer  insufficient  and  ordered  that  they  should  answer 
more  particularly  as  demanded  in  the  Bill.  On  ^vhich 
they  answered  True  it  is  ^ve  do  not  know  but  such  of  us 
(naming  the  names)  do  know  and  the  contents  of  the 
contract  are  as  follows 

This  made  so  strong  an  impression  on  me  at  the  time 
that  I  could  never  forget  it  to  see  men  who  had  left 
their  native  country  and  their  all  from  a  conscientious 
scrupulousness  in  religious  matters  prevaricating  in  this 
manner  on  solemn  oath  in  a  court  of  justice.  The  truth 
of  the  fact  I  tell  you  will  fuUy  appear  from  the  Bill  and 
answers  which  I  suppose  still  remain  among  the  chancery 
papers 

After  an  authentic  copy  of  the  Contract  was  obtained 
Mr  Rou  was  left  in  quiet  possession  of  his  pulpit  and  had 
his  Sallary  paid  him  but  as  Mr  Smith  observes  some  of 
the  most  considerable  persons  of  his  congregation  left 
their  church.  We  may  observe  here  likewise  tliat  some- 
times private  resentment  is  even  of  greater  force  than 
that  religious  zeal  which  makes  us  leave  our  country 
and  all  that  is  dear  to  us. 

But  before  I  leave  this  subject  I  cannot  with  Justice 
to  Mr  Rou  avoid  taking  notice  of  the  Character  J\Ir 
Smith  gives  him.  Mr  Rou  he  says  was  a  man  of  learn- 
ing but  proud  pleasurable  and  passionate  he  sets  Mr. 
Moulinaar  s  character  in  contrast  viz  that  he  was  of  pacific 
spirit,  dull  parts  and  unblameable  life  and  conversation 
Were  it  not  for  the  contrast  it  may  be  difficult  to  say 
what  Mr  Smith  means  by  a  pleasurable  man  being  a 
phrase  seldom  or  never  used  in  the  English  language 
but  as  it  is  set  in  contrast  here  with  unblameable  life 
and  conversation  the  reader  may  naturally  think  that  it 
means  a  man  of  pleasure.  I  knew  Mr  Rou  and  I  never 
heard  hiin  reproached  with  any  immorality.  He  ^vas 
bookish  and  as  such  men  frequently  are,  peevish  and 
had  nothing  of  the  courtly  ]_)olite  Frenchman.  The 
game  of  Chess  was  the  only  amusement  he  took  and  per- 
haps was  too  fond  of  it.  It  was  said  that  he  wrote  a 
treatise  on  that  game. 

14 


210  THE    GOLDEN    LETTERS 

From  what  lias  been  said  it  will  easily  appear  how 
proper  and  discreet  like  a  Lawyer  the  defence  of  the 
trustees  was  in  setting  up  the  Jurisdiction  of  the  consis- 
tory, a  Colloque  and  Synod  of  the  French  protestants  in 
France  who  at  that  time  had  no  existence  in  opposition 
to  the  Kings  Courts  of  Justice  &  who  had  they  existed 
could  have  given  Mr  Rou  no  relief.  Least  in  future 
ages  disputes  might  arise  about  the  place  of  the  birth  of 
this  distinguished  orator  as  formerly  happened  as  to  the 
l:>irth  place  of  Homer  Mr  Smith  tells  us  in  a  note  where 
his  birth  place  is 

As  J^Ir  Burnets  refuseing  to  qualify  Mr  DeLancey 
after  he  had  been  elected  a  member  for  the  city  of  New 
York  gave  the  first  rise  to  the  violent  party  struggles 
which  continued  many  years  afterwards  I  think  it  may 
be  usefull  to  you  to  relate  that  affair  more  particularly 
than  Mr  Smith  has  don 

At  that  time  the  members  of  Assembly  were  all  wise 
qualified  by  the  State  oaths  being  administered  to  them 
by  the  Governor  but  lately  they  have  been  qualified  by 
a  Dedimus  potestatem  usually  given  to  the  Judges  of 
the  supreme  court  or  any  one  of  them  for  that  purpose 
Mr  DeLancey  being  chosen  in  the  place  of  one  of  the 
members  for  the  city  of  New  York  who  was  dead  he 
was  sent  by  the  house  to  the  Governor  to  be  qualified  as 
usual.  Mr  Burnet  by  Mr  Morris's  advice  (I  make  no 
doubt)  refused  to  qualify  him  as  being  a  foreigner  and 
not  naturalized.  This  gave  a  very  general  dissatisfaction 
not  only  on  Mr.  DeLanceys  private  account  who  was 
much  esteemed  in  the  place  but  on  account  of  the  great 
niunbers  who  were  in  the  like  circumstances  for  the  great- 
est number  of  the  inhabitants  were  foreigners  Dutch  and 
French  or  the  Descendants  of  such  and  this  objection  they 
were  affray'd  might  be  extended  to  their  real  estates  and 
to  their  inheritances.  I  had  been  for  some  time  from  home 
and  did  not  return  till  the  evening  after  this  had  hap- 
pened. The  next  morning  Mr  Livingstone  the  Speaker 
came  to  my  house  and  began  to  talk  with  great  concern 
on  what  had  happened  the  day  before.     I  was  absolutely 


ON  smith's  history.  211 

ignorant  of  it  so  far  that  I  did  not  understand  him  till  he 
told  me  the  particulars.  In  the  afternoon  I  went  to  wait 
on  Mr  Burnet  while  I  was  with  him  Col  Hicks  who  was 
much  in  the  governors  interest  and  a  leading  member 
in  the  house  came  there  and  desired  to  speak  with  me 
in  private  He  told  me  that  the  house  was  in  a  ferment 
that  they  looked  upon  the  matter  as  a  breach  of  their 
principal  privilege  of  being  Judges  of  the  qualification 
of  their  own  members  and  that  the  Governors  friends 
would  oppose  him  in  it.  I  informed  Mr  Burnet  of  what 
Col.  Hicks  had  told  me  and  likewise  the  conversation 
I  had  with  the  Speaker  in  the  morning  He  was  stag- 
gered and  immediately  sat  down  to  write  a  message  to 
the  Assembly  in  which  he  yielded  by  halves  and  with 
apparent  reluctancy  On  reading  what  he  had  wrote  I 
told  him  I  was  convinced  he  must  either  yield  or  break 
Avith  the  assembly  and  that  if  he  did  break  it  would  be  on 
a  very  unpopular  subject  The  privilege  of  the  house 
and  on  a  subject  in  which  great  numbers  would  think 
themselves  and  their  families  greatly  interested.  The 
Governor  then  wrote  a  message  wherein  he  said  that  he 
had  thought  it  proper  to  inform  the  house  of  the  objec- 
tion made  to  MrDeLanceys  qualification  but  at  the  same 
time  he  left  it  intirely  to  the  judgment  of  the  house. 
Mr  Burnet  was  certainly  in  the  wrong  in  entering  on  a 
matter  of  such  consequence  without  being  assured  that 
his  friends  would  support  him  in  it.  Perhaps  it  was 
thought  that  the  objection  would  be  a  perpetual  check 
on  Mr  DeLanceys  conduct  but  it  had  a  contrary  effect. 
Mr  DeLancey  was  a  man  of  strong  and  lasting  resent- 
ment and  his  family  seem  to  have  taken  a  resolution 
fi'om  that  time  to  have  Mr  Morris  removed  from  the 
office  of  Chief  Justice  if  by  any  means  it  could  be  don. 

I  come  now  to  the  remarkable  resolves  of  the 
Assembly  in  the  year  1727  against  the  Court  of  Chan- 
cery which  Mr  Smith  sets  down  at  large  in  his  history. 
It  may  be  safely  affirmed  that  every  fact  set  forth  in 
the  preamble  to  the  resolves  is  false  or  greatly  exaggerat- 
ed except  the  exorbitant  fees  and  charges  of  the  Lawyers 


212  THE    COLDEN    LETTERS 

attending  the  court  without  which  Mr  Smith  tells  us 
the  present  Lawyers  despise  the  practice.  It  is  certain 
however  that  the  unreasonable  length  of  the  Bills 
and  answers  and  dilatory  pleas  put  in  by  them  were 
real  grievances  and  which  it  was  not  in  the  power 
of  the  Chancellor  to  prevent  but  without  these  in 
Mr  Smiths  Judgement  the  business  of  the  Chancer}^ 
must  rest  and  the  people  of  this  province  be  deprived 
of  relief  in  Equity. 

Strangers  to  the  men  who  compose  our  Assemblies 
to  their  manner  of  proceeding,  and  to  what  has  passe^ 
in  that  house  may  be  apt  to  give  the  greatest  credit  to 
what  they  solemnly  assert  whereas  it  really  deserves 
less  than  that  of  private  persons.  No  one  man  in  the 
house  thinks  himself  answerable  for  what  passes  there 
and  as  a  body  they  think  themselves  not  accountable 
to  any  other  authority  and  for  that  reason  often  act 
very  unaccountably.  It  has  been  too  frequent  that 
angry  party  men  by  their  influence  in  the  house  take 
this  method  to  spread  Slander  and  calumny  with  im- 
punity. I  shall  therefor  relate  the  circumstances  which 
attended  these  famous  resolves. 

Mr  Philipse  Speaker  of  the  Assembly  at  the  time 
these  resolves  were  made  had  been  several  years  before 
that  time  in  partnership  with  one  Codringtone  in  some 
mercantile  business.  At  the  conclusion  of  their  partner- 
ship Mr  Philipse  gave  Mr  Codringtone  his  bond  for 
a  considerable  sum  of  money  if  I  remember  right 
<£1500.  Codringtone  dyed  Mr  Philipse  neglected  to 
pay  either  principal  or  interest  and  at  last  refused  pay- 
ment. Codringtones  widow  sued  the  bond  at  common 
law  in  the  supreme  court  of  New  York  Mr  Philipse 
pleaded  that  the  bond  was  paid  before  it  was  given.  The 
oddness  of  the  plea  became  the  discourse  at  the  coffee 
house  one  day  while  I  was  there  I  asked  Mr  Philipse's 
attorney  who  happened  to  be  then  present  what  he 
could  mean  by  such  a  plea.  He  answered  it  was  none 
of  his  he  kneAv  better  but  that  he  was  obliged  to  j^ut 
it  in  by  hi^  client.      The  plea  was  over  ruled  by  the 


ON  smith's  history.  213 

court  and  Judgement  given  against  Mr  Philipse.  Mr 
Philipse  made  this  plea  with  a  resolution  to  remove 
the  suit  into  chancery.  You  know  the  Governor  is 
chancellor  in  this  province.  Mr  Philipse  some  time  be- 
fore this  suit  was  brought  but  while  he  expected  it  paid 
unusual  court  to  Mr  Burnet  his  visits  were  remark- 
ably frequent  and  as  he  was  speaker  of  the  assembly 
Mr  Burnet  received  him  graciously.  Mr  Philipse  in 
his  bill  set  forth  that  at  the  time  he  gave  this  bond 
Mr  Codringtone  was  indebted  to  him  by  accounts  in  a 
much  larger  sum.  Codringtone  was  many  years  before 
this  dead  and  perhaps  none  liveing  who  were  privy  to 
the  transactions  between  them.  All  the  evidence 
which  Mr  Philipse  could  produce  was  not  sufficient  to 
convince  Mr  Burnet  that  a  man  of  Mr  Philipse's  sense 
and  experience  in  business  would  give  his  bond  for 
1500  pounds  to  a  man  who  owed  him  a  greater  sum 
at  the  same  time  and  therefor  Mr  Burnet  dismissed  his 
Bill  and  left  the  matter  to  the  common  law  as  it  stood 
before.  This  happened  a  small  time  before  these  re- 
solves. The  method  Mr  Philipse  took  to  obtain  them 
is  no  less  remarkable. 

The  Assembly  having  finished  their  business  it  was 
generally  known  that  the  Governor  intended  to  put  an 
end  to  the  session  the  next  day  at  12  of  the  clock  by 
giving  his  assent  to  the  Bills  then  ready  in  the  usual 
form  at  which  time  the  Governor  calls  the  assembly 
to  be  present  as  witnesses  to  his  assent.  The  assembly 
had  adjourned  to  the  usual  time  before  noon  but  as  the 
business  was  over  the  members  on  such  occasions  did 
not  meet  till  the  time  they  expected  to  be  called  up. 
Mr  Philipses  having  prepared  liis  friends  they  with 
some  others  met  at  eleven  and  immediately  ordered  the 
committee  of  Grievances  to  sit.  They  put  Coll  Hicks 
who  was  the  Governors  friend  into  the  chair  and  having 
their  resolves  ready  drawn  in  writing  they  imme- 
diately voted  them  without  allowing  of  any  argument 
and  the  Speaker  taking  the  chair  immediately  after 
they  were  reported  and  confirmed  but  the  clerk  had 


214  THE    GOLDEN    LETTERS 

not  time  to  enter  tliem  in  the  minutes  before  they  were 
called  to  attend  the  Governor  and  he  was  left  in  the 
house  to  complete  them.  Few  of  the  Governors- friends 
were  present  and  they  so  much  surprised  that  they 
knew  not  how  to  act.  Mr  Burnet  gave  his  assent  to 
the  Bills  and  while  the  acts  were  as  usual  published  he 
was  informed  of  what  had  passed  by  one  of  the  mem- 
bers and  therefor  instead  of  prorogueing  the  assembly 
as  he  intended  he  dissolved  them  with  some  marks  of 
resentment.  A  feeble  resentment  which  only  served  to 
increase  the  popularity  of  the  opposite  party  and  to 
increase  their  strength  in  the  next  election. 

I  have  already  extended  this  letter  beyond  the  length 
I  had  confined  myself  to  in  writing  to  you  on  this 
subject  and  therefor  shall  delay  what  I  have  farther  to 
tell  you  of  Mr  Burnets  administration  to  my  next. 

Yours. 

Perhaps  you'l  think  that  I  write  with  resentment  to 
Mr  Smith  the  Historian.  He  is  so  assuming  in  his  man- 
ner especially  in  giving  characters  of  the  most  distin- 
guished persons  often  unfair  allwise  partial  whether 
his  characters  be  favourable  or  otherwise  biassed  by  his 
connections  either  as  to  family  or  religious  sect,  that 
some  resentment  is  unavoidable.  It  is  not  fit  that 
Mr  Smith's  history  should  pass  for  a  chronicle  of  the 
Province  of  New  York 


OADWALLADER  COLDEN^  TO  HIS  SON. 

Coldengham,  Deer.  31st  1759. 
Dear  Son 

Mr  Burnet  after  he  had  been  some  years  at  New 
York  applied  himself  to  the  study  of  Scripture  prophecy 
on  Principles  which  he  told  me  he  had  received  from  S"" 
Isaac  Newton  The  prophets  he  said  have  a  language 
peculiar  to  themselves  and  that  if  their  language  be  un- 


ON  smith's  history.  215 

derstood  the  prophecy  becomes  as  easy  to  be  understood 
as  other  writings.  He  had  a  very  extraordinary  meraor}- 
and  he  had  read  the  prophecies  so  often  over  that  he 
coukl  at  once  point  out  the  chapter  and  verse  in  which 
any  subject  was  treated  or  any  prophetical  word  was  to 
be  found.  For  some  time  this  study  so  intirely  engrossed 
his  thoughts  that  upon  all  occasions  he  introduced  it  into 
discourse  even  so  far  that  his  conversation  became  dis- 
agreable  to  his  best  friends.  He  was  zealous  to  convince 
them  for  he  said  the  evidence  of  Christianity  stands  on 
Miracles  and  the  Prophecies  are  perpetual  miracles  re- 
newed every  time  any  prophecy  is  accomplished.  The 
Evidence  of  the  Miracles  done  by  Christ  grows  daily 
weaker  by  the  length  of  time  and  therefor  there  is  a 
necessity  of  a  perpetual  renewal  of  miracles.  But  not- 
withstanding of  all  the  pains  he  Avas  at  and  his  publish- 
ing his  thoughts  in  print  I  know  not  that  he  at  any 
time  made  one  convert,  tho'  perhaps  he  has  wrote  better 
on  that  subject  than  any  else  has  don.  Studious  men 
are  apt  to  fall  into  some  kind  of  Enthusiasm  or  other 
which  surprises  the  rest  of  mankind  to  see  men  fall  into 
who  on  all  other  occasions  discover  an  uncommon  force 
of  reason  and  yet  on  some  particular  subjects  to  be  uncor- 
rigeably  whimsical  and  unreasonable.  The  great  S"" 
Isaac  Newton  in  some  instances  is  thought  to  have  fallen 
into  this  misfortune.  How  comes  this  about.  Is  it  not 
that  they  become  somehow  fond  of  some  peculiar  notions 
and  by  continually  insisting  on  them  and  presenting 
them  to  their  imaginations  they  strike  their  minds  with 
as  much  force  as  realities  A  man  that  often  repeats  a 
lie  of  his  own  may  at  least  believe  it  to  be  true.  It  is 
thought  several  instances  can  be  given  to  prove  that  this 
really  happens 

Tho  Mr  Burnet  was  a  zealous  Christian  he  was  not  in 
all  points  oithodox.  If  I  mistake  not  he  was  Arian.  I 
heard  him  tell  that  after  his  fathers  death  he  found 
among  his  papers  a  letter  from  Archbishop  Tillotson  in 
which  the  Archbishop  wished  the  church  could  get 
fairly  rid  of  that   Athanasian  creed.     He   used  often 


216  THE    GOLDEN   LETTERS 

to  say  that  many  Orthodox  are  knaves  but  he  never 
knew  a  heretick  that  was  not  an  honest  man. 

Mr  Smith  is  injurious  to  Mr  Burnet's  memory  where 
he  insinuates  that  some  thought  his  removal  necessary 
for  the  public  tranquility.  There  was  not  the  least  ground 
for  this  insinuation.  The  generality  of  the  people  were 
not  so  insensible  of  Mr  Burnets  Merit  tho'  a  faction  had 
the  artifice  to  make  some  noise  at  the  close  of  the  last 
session  of  Assembly  in  the  manner  before  mentioned. 
Mr  Smith  has  given  a  pretty  full  account,  how  much 
Mr  Burnet  studied  the  true  interest  of  the  province  more 
than  any  before  him  or  any  since.  No  instance  can  be 
given  of  oppression  in  any  shape.  No  man  was  more 
free  from  Avarice.  He  was  generous  to  a  degree 
so  far  that  if  he  erred  it  was  not  in  takeing  sufficient  care 
of  his  private  interest.  He  expended  yearly  consider- 
able sums  in  private  charitie,  which  he  managed  so  that 
none  knew  of  them  more  than  what  could  not  be  avoided 
and  thereby  in  some  degree  doubled  the  charitie  to  many 
who  received  it. 

That  which  excited  the  malice  of  a  faction  was  merely 
the  effect  of  his  great  merit.  The  stopping  the  trade 
which  a  few  merchants  had  with  Canada  carried  on  to 
the  prejudice  of  Great  Britain  and  of  all  the  American 
colonies  and  his  giveing  relief  in  Chancery  against  the 
frauds  of  artful  and  rich  men.  Neither  the  ministry  nor 
the  people  of  Great  Britain  at  that  time  saw  the  conse- 
quences of  the  Indian  trade  and  of  the  ascendency  over 
the  Indians  which  was  thereby  to  be  gained  tho  had  they 
considered  that  matter  with  the  same  attention  ^vhich 
Mr  Burnet  did  it  is  probable  the  present  war  might  have 
been  prevented  No  discovery  of  any  kind  can  be  prop- 
erly valued  by  those  who  do  not  understand  it  and  for 
that  reason  new  discoveries  are  never  at  first  valued  as 
they  are  at  some  distance  of  time  afterwards,  because  few 
take  the  trouble  necessary  to  understand  them  till  they 
have  obtained  a  reputation  by  being  espoused  by  men  of 
known  and  distinguished  knowledge.  There  is  some- 
thing in  the  English  Constitution  which  renders  their 


ON  smith's  history.  217 

ministry  short  sighted  They  are  so  much  emplojed  in 
expedients  for  the  present  time  that  they  are  unwilling 
to  think  of  things  at  a  distance. 

The  true  reason  of  Mr  Burnets  removal  I  had  from 
Coll  Montgomerie  his  Successor.  There  had  been  a  re- 
markable misunderstanding  between  the  present  King- 
when  Prince  of  Wales  and  his  father  King  George  the 
1st  dureing  which  all  the  Princes''  servants  who  had  offices 
under  the  King  were  removed  from  their  offices.  Coll 
Montgomerie  was  one  of  these  When  the  Prince  became 
King  the  offices  under  him  as  Prince  of  Wales  of  course 
fell  and  the  officers  were  to  be  otherwise  provided  and 
the  King  likewise  thought  it  proper  to  recompense  those 
servants  more  particularly  who  had  suffered  by  adhering 
to  him.  For  these  reasons  Coll  l^.Iontgomerie  had  his 
choice  of  several  offices  both  at  home  and  abroad.  He 
made  choice  of  the  Government  of  New  York  as  the 
most  lucrative  and  attended  with  the  least  trouble. 
New  York  being  a  more  healthy  climate  made  him  pre- 
fier  it  to  Jamaica  which  was  like^vise  in  his  option. 

When  Mr  Burnet  heard  that  he  was  to  be  removed 
he  could  not  avoid  entertaining  some  resentment  He 
knew  that  he  had  executed  his  office  faithfully  and  with 
a  view  to  serve  his  King  and  Countr}'.  The  present 
royal  family  had  acknowledged  some  obligations  to  Bishop 
Burnet  the  Governors  father  on  his  being  the  first  person 
that  had  named  the  house  of  Hanover  to  King  William 
as  the  next  Protestant  family  in  the  succession  to  the 
crown  of  Great  Britain  and  K.  William  had  given  the 
Bishop  leave  to  make  the  first  mention  of  it  to  that 
family  some  }'ears  before  the  act  of  Succession  was  ])assed 
The  princess  Sophia  in  acknowledgement  of  this  had 
sent  a  present  of  a  handsom  silver  gilt  tea  Equipage  to 
the  Bishop  which  Gov""  Burnet  had  with  him  at  New 
York  No  man  in  Great  Britain  had  been  more  zealous 
for  the  succession  in  the  house  of  Hanover  than  the 
Bishop  had  been.  Of  which  the  Boyal  family  had  often 
declared  themselves  sensible.  It  is  no  wonder  then  that 
Mr  Burnet  entertained  some  resentment  on  beinii-  turned 


218  THE    GOLDEN    LETTERS 

out  to  make  room  for  one  who  had  only  private  merit  in 
personal  services  to  give  him  a  preference. 

Mr  Burnets  friends  at  court  obtained  an  audience  of 
the  Queen  in  hopes  by  her  influence  to  divert  the  King 
from  removing  of  Mr.  Burnet.  The  Queen  answered 
them  with  courtly  politeness  that  the  King  was  very 
sensible  of  Mr  Burnets  merit  that  the  people  of  New 
England  were  a  troublesome  people  and  therefor  the 
King  thought  it  necessary  to  appoint  a  Gentleman 
of  Mr  Burnets  abilities  governor  of  that  colony  of  Mas- 
sachusetts Bay.  She  knew  she  said  that  the  government 
of  Massachusetts  bay  is  not  so  lucrative  as  New  York 
but  that  the  Kings  service  required  Mr  Burnets  accept- 
ing of  it  at  present  and  that  afterwards  any  loss  he  had 
thereby  in  his  private  fortune  should  be  made  up.  Not- 
Avithstanding  of  this  his  friends  were  apprehensive  that 
he  would  refuse  to  accept  of  that  Government  and  they 
Avere  therefor  very  earnest  with  him  to  accept  of  it. 

The  people  of  the  Massachusetts  government  had  for 
sometime  past  continually  quarelled  with  their  Governors 
and  had  refused  to  give  them  a  reasonable  support. 
One  of  their  Governors  deserted  his  government  and  no 
gentleman  of  any  character  was  willing  to  accept  of  it. 
When  Mr  Burnet  arrived  in  his  government  he  was  re- 
ceived with  all  the  respect  that  they  could  show  but  he 
carried  with  him  a  royal  instruction  which  he  foresaw 
would  be  the  source  of  dispute  viz  That  he  should  insist 
on  their  assembly's  granting  a  thousand  pounds  sterling 
yearly  sallary  to  the  Governor  for  an  indetermined  time 
Mr  Burnet  advised  with  his  friends  in  New  York  before 
he  went  to  his  Government  as  to  the  part  he  was  to  act, 
in  inforceing  this  instruction.  He  then  resolved  to  take 
care  that  it  might  not  become  a  personal  quarrel  between 
him  and  the  people  but  he  did  not  observe  this  rule  af- 
terwards Whether  it  was  by  any  advice  whicli  he 
received  there  or  from  some  thing  in  his  natural  temper 
I  know  not  for  he  loved  an  argument  The  Assembly  in 
their  reasoning  did  not  think  it  proper  to  declare  the  true 
republican  principles  which  swayed  them  and  it  was  not 


ON  smith's  history.  219 

difficult  for  Mr  Burnet  to  shew  the  fallacy  and  weakness 
of  the  arguments  which  they  used.  He  charged  them 
with  disingenuity  which  he  made  appear  from  their  man- 
ner of  arguing  This  produced  angry  replies  and  the 
dispute  became  personal.  The  thing  which  by  all  means 
he  was  to  avoid  because  it  served  their  purposes  to  make 
it  such.  These  disputes  continued  all  the  time  of  his 
administration  and  made  it  vexatious  and  disagreable 
to  himself  Before  they  were  ended  he  died  of  a  fever 
without  receiving  any  sallary. 

Similar  instructions  have  been  since  that  time  given 
to  the  Governors  of  New  York.  It  has  seemed  very  odd 
to  me  that  the  ministrv  has  insisted  in  orivino;  such  in- 
structions  without  having  it  in  their  power  to  enforce 
them  and  putting  their  Governors  under  the  necessity 
of  either  breaking  the  instruction  or  of  starveing  at  least 
of  loosing  the  purpose  for  which  they  desire  their  Gov- 
ernments. It  is  easy  to  guess  which  of  these  two  all  of 
them  have  chosen  Nothing  has  so  much  lessened  the 
Kings  authority  in  the  colonies  as  this  impolitic  step 
has  don. 

Now  you  have  everything  relating  to  Mr  Burnet 
which  I  think  may  be  of  use  to  you  to  know  so  far  as 
has  occurred  to  the  memory  of 


OADWALLADER  GOLDEN  TO  HIS  SON. 

Coldengham  Jan'?  31st  1760 

Mr  Burnet  had  been  acquainted  Avith  Col  Mont- 
gomerie  in  England  and  from  the  confidence  he  had  in 
their  former  friendship  he  continued  in  the  Governors 
house  with  a  resolution  to  write  Col  Montgomerie  to 
lodge  with  him  till  he  left  New  York  but  some  of  the 
party  who  were  in  opposition  to  Mr  Burnet  went  on 
board  the  ship  before  Col  Montgomerie  came  on  shoar 
told  him  of  Mr  Burnets  design VI  invitation  and  dissuaded 
him  from  it  so  ett'ectually  that  he  afterwards  absolutely 
refused  Mr    Burnets  invitation  and  went  into  private 


220  THE    GOLDEN    LETTERS 

lodo;ino;s  on  which  Mr  Burnet  removed  from  the  Gov- 
ernors  house  before  night  and  carried  away  every  thing 
of  his  next  day  notwithstanding  of  which  Col.  Montgom- 
erie  did  not  go  into  the  governors  house  till  after  Mr 
Burnet  left  New  York. 

As  we  were  walking  in  formality  to  publish  Col 
Montgomerie's  commission  I  overheard  him  say  to  Mr 
'Clark  that  he  would  absolutely  trust  to  his  advice  and 
he  kept  his  promise  to  his  death.  Mr  Clark  by  his  hav- 
ing been  a  considerable  time  Secretary  of  the  Province 
had  experience  in  the  public  affairs  and  understood  men 
and  business  Mr  Clark  was  likewise  Deput}^  to  Mr 
Horace  Walpole  as  auditor  of  the  Bevenue  in  America 
and  probably  it  was  by  Mr  Walpole's  advice  that  Coll 
Montgomerie  placed  his  confidence  in  Mr  Clark, 

Col  Montgomerie  did  not  want  natural  abilities  nor 
any  part  of  the  education  proper  for  a  gentleman  but  he 
had  given  himself  up  to  his  pleasures  especially  to  his 
bottle  and  had  an  aversion  to  business.  He  was  likewise 
the  most  diffident  of  himself  of  any  man  I  ever  knew. 
He  was  much  in  debt  and  wanted  to  recover  his  fortune 
by  the  profits  of  his  government  with  as  little  trouble  to 
himself  as  possible.  Mr  Clark  served  him  well  for  these 
purposes 

Mr  DeLancey  was  at  the  head  of  the  party  in  the 
assembly  which  had  been  in  opposition  to  Mr  Burnet 
and  which  had  now  the  ascendant  in  that  house.  Mr 
DeLancey  was  to  be  gratified  in  his  resentment  against 
Chief  Justice  Morris  and  the  Gov""  was  to  use  his  in- 
terest to  have  the  acts  repealed  which  had  been  passed 
in  Governor  Burnets  Administration  prohibiting  the 
direct  trade  to  Canada  with  Indian  goods  In  considera- 
tion of  these  the  Governor  had  his  Sallary  secured  for 
five  years  and  all  the  perquisites  which  any  Governor 
before  him  ever  had.  Both  sides  punctually  performed 
their  ingagements  to  each  other.  But  it  was  surprising 
to  me  how  easily  the  Board  of  Trade  and  Plantations 
were  induced  to  recommend  to  the  King  the  repealing 
of  the  laws  in  favor  of  the  direct  trade  with  the  Indians 


ON  smith''s  history.  221 

and  which  prohibited  the  furnishing  the  French  with 
goods  to  enable  them  to  carry  on  that  trade  to  the 
prejudice  to  great  Britain  and  of"  the  colonies  after  all 
that  had  been  laid  before  them  by  Mr  Burnet  on  that 
head.  They  probably  thought  that  the  people  of  New 
York  were  only  interested  in  the  Indian  trade  and  that 
it  did  not  concern  Gr.  Britain.  They  seem  to  have  had 
nothing  in  view  at  that  time  but  to  serve  the  private 
purposes  of  a  Governor.  Mr  DeLancey  had  the  ad- 
vantages of  his  own  private  trade  in  view  which  were 
very  considerable  But  as  the  resentment  against  Chief 
Justice  Morris  was  productive  afterwards  of  violent 
party  struggles  it  may  be  of  use  to  know  all  the  circum- 
stances attending  it. 

The  fixing  of  the  Sallaries  of  the  officers  of  Govern- 
ment had  been  for  some  time  a  matter  of  dispute  be- 
tween the  Governors  and  Assembly.  The  assembly 
thought  that  since  they  gave  the  money  they  have  like- 
wise the  right  of  applying  it  to  the  several  uses  of  Gov- 
ernment and  of  determining  what  the  officers  sallaries 
shall  be.  The  Governors  insisted  that  it  is  the  right  of 
the  crown  to  determine  the  rewards  due  to  the  servants 
of  the  crowTQ.  The  matter  was  compromised  in  the 
administrations  of  Brigadier  Hunter  and  Mr  Burnet. 
The  Assembly  yielded  to  leave  out  of  the  support  bill 
the  specifying  the  particular  Sallaries  to  be  paid  to  each 
officer  on  the  Governors  o-ivino;  his  word  of  honor  that 
he  would  not  grant  Avarrants  for  a  larger  sum  than  what 
was  spe(dtied  in  a  list  privately  presented  to  tlie  Gov- 
ernor by  the  Assembly  before  they  passed  the  support 
bill.  After  the  Assembly  at  this  time  had  agreed  to 
grant  the  usual  support  for  five  years  in  making  up  the 
list  of  the  officers  Sallaries  to  be  presented  to  the  Gov- 
ernor they  lessened  Mr  Morris's  salary  as  Chief  Justice 
by  fifty  pounds  a  year.  Mr  Morris  was  a  membe]\  He 
moved  to  know  whether  he  had  been  guilty  of  an}- 
neglect  or  misdemeanor  in  his  office  that  made  them 
punish  him  by  lessening  his  Sallary  They  declared  that 
it  was  not  for  that  reason  but  from  the  poverty  of  the 


222  THE    GOLDEN    LETTERS 

Colony  and  if  I  mistake  not  he  obtained  an  entry  to  be 
made  on  their  minutes  accordingly  Tho  Mr  Morris  and 
his  friends  used  a  good  deal  of  argument  with  the  Gov- 
ernor to  prevent  his  agreeing  to  the  lessening  of  the 
Sallary  and  he  did  do  it.  It  was  certainly  allowing 
private  persons  to  have  too  great  influence  on  the  courts 
of  Justice  since  it  was  only  don  to  gratify  private  re- 
sentment. I  remember  that  I  used  this  argument  Avith 
Col  Montgomerie  on  this  occasion  in  Council.  When 
an  assembly  act  merely  from  humor  they  act  like  children 
"  and  like  children  the  more  they  are  humored  the  more 
humorsome  they  grow  This  was  verified  in  subsequent 
times  but  at  that  time  Col  Montgomerie  thought  it  best 
to  keep  them  in  good  humour  who  had  the  purse  in  their 
hands  However  he  was  desirous  if  possible  to  prevent 
all  dispute  and  therefore  desired  Mr  Alexander  and  my- 
self to  propose  to  Mr  Morris  from  him  that  if  Mr 
Morris  would  forbear  makeing  any  dispute  with  him 
upon  the  head  he  would  join  his  mterest  to  any  repre- 
sentation which  Mr  Morris  should  make  to  the  Kings 
ministers  in  order  to  have  an  instruction  not  to  suffer 
the  lessening  of  the  Chief  Justices  sallary  by  any  vote 
of  the  Assembly  or  something  to  this  purpose.  We  did 
so  but  could  not  prevail  on  Mr  Morris 

Mr  Morris's  eldest  son  was  of  the  council.  Wlien  the 
Warrant  for  his  father's  Sallary  was  proposed  with  the 
abatement  of  .£50  he  opposed  the  change  from  the  usual 
Sallary  and  in  a  premeditated  speech,  and  among  other 
things  said  that  the  doing  it  was  illegal,  unwarrantable 
and  arbitrary.  These  were  hard  words  which  shocked 
the  Governor  however  he  had  till  next  council  day  to 
explain  himself  when  still  insisting  on  what  he  had  said 
before,  he  was  suspended  with  the  consent  of  the  Council 
from  his  seat  at  the  board  till  the  Kings  pleasure  should 
be  known  for  useing  such  harsh  expressions  against  what 
was  done  with  the  consent  of  every  branch  of  the  Legis- 
lature of  the  province.  I  was  not  in  Council  at  the 
time  being  m  the  Country.  When  I  came  to  town  Col 
Montgomerie  shewed  me  copies  of  all  that  passed  and 


ON    SMITHES    HISTORY.  223 

declared  Mr  Morris  had  forced  him  to  do  a  thing  much 
against  his  incUnation.  On  a  hearing  before  the  board 
of  trade  the  suspension  was  confirmed  and  Mr  Morris 
the  younger  removed  from  the  Council. 

Col  Montgomeries  view  was  to  live  as  much  as  pos- 
sible at  ease  and  at  the  same  time  retrieve  his  fortune 
and  for  that  purpose  his  administration  was  intirely 
directed  to  the  Immours  of  those  men  who  at  that  time 
had  the  assembly  under  their  influence  except  where  he 
apprehended  any  measure  might  lead  him  into  public 
dispute.  Had  he  lived  these  condescensions  to  the 
humours  of  others  would  have  in  time  intirely  defeated 
his  other  view  of  living  at  ease  for  after  these  Gentle- 
men had  got  all  the  offices  in  the  hands  of  their  friends 
and  dependants  he  became  sensible  of  their  neglect  before 
he  died.  His  yielding  to  lessen  the  Chief  Justice's  Sallary 
merely  to  gTatify  a  private  resentment  gave  the  assembl}' 
such  a  sense  of  their  influence  on  a  Governor  that  all 
his  successors  found  the  effects  of  it.  For  afterwards 
assemblies  did  not  so  much  as  ask  the  Governors  consent 
to  the  officers  sallaries  but  put  them  in  their  bill  which 
he  must  accept  in  the  manner  they  offered  it  or  loose  his 
o^vn  Sallary  and  in  this  case  they  suffer  no  amendment 
to  the  bill  by  the  Council  no  not  so  much  as  a  con- 
ference on  the  subject.  Hereby  the  Assembly  claim  the 
sole  power  of  rewarding  all  the  officers  of  Government 
and   of  Judging  of  the  reward  due  for   their  Services 

Mr  Smith  has  in  his  history  given  a  good  general  ac- 
count of  the  agreement  for  a  partition  line  between  New 
York  and  Connecticut.  I  think  it  may  be  of  use  to  }ou 
to  know  some  particulars  which  probably  Mr  Smith  did 
not  know.  In  1725  Commissioners  were  appointed  in 
New  York  of  whom  I  was  one  to  meet  commissioners 
from  Connecticut  in  order  to  run  out  and  settle  the 
boundaries  pursuant  to  the  agreement  between  the  two 
colonies  in  1683  as  recited  in  Mr  Smiths  History.  The 
first  thing  we  entered  upon  was  the  method  to  be  pursued 
in  the  Survey  for  running  the  lines.  The  ditficulty 
cliiefly  consisted  how  to  run  a  line   parallel  to  Hudson's 


224  THE    GOLDEN    LETTERS 

River  every  wnere  twenty  miles  distant  from  it  which 
will  be  found  difficult  to  do  if  it  be  not  impi'acticable 
where  a  river  has  manv  turnino;s  and  windin";s  so  as 
precisely  to  comply  with  the  words  of  the  agreement. 
The  Commissioners  from  Connecticut  took  every  method 
to  perplex  the  matter  and  to  evade  the  agreeing  to  anj^ 
method  of  Survey.  After  many  fruitless  meetings  and 
some  adjournments  to  different  times  and  places  we 
gave  them  notice  that  we  intended  to  run  the  lines  ex 
j)arte  and  desired  them  to  be  present  at  our  work  and 
witnesses  of  what  we  did.  As  I  was  sensible  that  every- 
thing don  in  this  case  ex  parte  would  be  subject  to 
endless  disputes  and  thereby  the  settling  of  the  frontiers 
would  be  obstructed  When  we  had  met  to  take  a  parting 
glass  I  took  one  of  their  commissioners  aside.  I  told  him 
that  I  suspected  they  had  something  at  heart  which  they 
were  affrayed  to  discover.  I  promised  that  if  he  would  be 
free  with  me  I  would  make  no  bad  use  of  what  he  should 
tell  me,  and  perhaps  we  might  fall  on  some  method  to 
make  them  easy.  He  told  me  their  whole  concern  was 
for  the  people  of  Ridgeheld  and  that  if  we  could  make 
them  easy  as  to  that  part  of  the  line  adjoining  to  E-idge- 
fielcl  we  should  have  no  dispute  as  to  any  other  part. 
After  informing  my  fellow  commissioners  of  what  had 
passed  and  some  discourse  among  ourselves  we  resolved 
to  renew  the  conferences.  After  which  the  method  for 
running  the  partition  lines  was  agreed  to  without  much 
dis])ute.  From  this  you  will  know  the  reason  of  the  lines 
being  run  in  the  manner  they  are.  By  the  expense  of 
these  frequent  meetings  and  adjournments  the  money 
given  by  the  Assembly  for  running  the  lines  was  expend- 
ed befoi-e  they  could  be  actually  marked  out  upon  the 
land  or  the  survey  be  made  for  that  purpose 

In  the  year  1730  Several  of  the  Inhabitants  of 
Ridgetield  made  proposals  to  some  gentlemen  in  New 
York  for  running  the  Partition  lines  on  private  expense  on 
condition  of  having  a  quantity  certain  of  the  Equivalent 
lands  from  Connecticut  granted  to  them  An  agreement 
was  accordingly  made  between  the  Governor  and  Council 


ON  smith's  history.  225 

of  'New  York  on  one  part  and  several  persons  of  New 
York  and  Connecticut  on  the  other  part  who  were  to 
be  at  the  charge  of  running  the  lines  on  condition  of 
having  50.000  acres  of  the  equivalent  lands  granted  to 
them  on  the  usual  quitrents  and  fees  for  obtaining  the 
patent. 

The  Gentlemen  in  New  York  who  had  the  principal 
management  of  this  affair  had  been  Mr  Burnets 
friends  in  whom  he  confided  in  the  time  of  his  adminis- 
tration Mr  Harison  had  been  of  their  number  but 
after  he  knew  that  Mr  Burnet  was  to  be  removed  he  left 
Mr  Burnet  and  joined  with  those  who  had  been  in  oppo- 
sition to  him  in  such  manner  that  Mr  Burnet  said  openly 
that  Mr  Harisons  ungratitude  to  him  would  not  recom- 
mend him  to  his  successor  for  he  had  received  many  fa- 
vours from  Mr.  Burnet.  For  this  reason  Mr  Harison 
was  not  invited  to  join  in  takeing  a  share  of  the  Patent 
He  complained  to  the  Governor  of  this  neglect  and  at 
the  Governors  desire  he  had  the  offer  of  a  small  share 
which  he  accepted  of  with  seeming  thankful  acknow- 
legement  but  at  the  same  time  he  was  highly  disgusted 
by  his  discovery  that  he  was  despised  both  by  the  Gen- 
tlemen whose  friendsliip  he  had  forfeited  and  by  the 
others  whose  friendship  he  had  courted.  He  had  some 
how  found  access  by  letter  to  the  Duke  of  Chandos.  He 
represented  these  Lands  to  the  Duke  not  only  as  of  great 
value  by  the  extraordinary  goodness  of  the  soil  but  by 
their  containing  valuable  mines  and  by  their  being  con- 
venient for  carrying  on  an  extensive  fur  trade  and  thereby 
persuaded  the  Duke  to  solicit  a  grant  of  them  from  the 
King  for  himself  and  some  other  Gentlemen  in  England 
the  names  of  the  other  gentlemen  being  only  used  in 
trust  for  themselves  and  the  Duke  whose  name  did  not 
appear  in  the  grant  In  this  the  Duke  was  exceedingly 
deceived,  because  there  were  no  mines  in  that  land  and 
no  fur  trade  could  be  carried  on  from  that  part  of  the 
country  and  the  soil  of  the  lands  was  nothing  better  than 
the  generality  of  the  country.  The  grantees  in  New 
York  could  not  obtain  their  patent  till  they  had  com- 

15 


226  THE    GOLDEN   LETTERS 

pleted  tlie  partition  lines  between  the  Colonies  of  New- 
York  and  Connecticut  and  near  twelve  months  passed 
before  this  could  be  done  In  the  mean  time  the  grant  in 
England  passed  and  the  Gentlemen  in  New  York  were 
at  all  the  expense  of  running  the  lines  and  of  obtaining 
a  patent  without  knowing  that  any  application  had  been 
made  in  Eno-land  for  a  grant  of  the  same  lands 

As  this  aifair  had  a  great  influence  on  the  publick 
transactions  during  the  administration  of  the  succeeding 
governor  it  is  proper  that  you  should  know  this  aifair 
more  particularly  than  as  it  is  told  by  Mr  Smith  in  his 
history 

I  have  only  one  thing  more  to  mention  which  may 
serve  for  a  little  amusement  Col.  Montgomerie  designed 
to  have  been  in  New  York  in  the  fall  of  the  year  but  the 
ships  were  driven  off  by  hard  gales  of  Wind  to  Barba- 
does  where  they  continued  till  next  Spring.  I  heard 
Col  Montgomerie  tell  that  while  he  was  at  Barbadoes  a 
very  old  man  died  who  on  his  deathbed  confessed  that 
he  was  the  person  who  cut  off  Kmg  Charles'  head. 
That  as  soon  as  he  had  performed  the  execution  he  was 
carried  on  board  a  ship  bound  to  Barbadoes  where  he 
had  lived  in  good  reputation  to  the  time  of  his  death. 

Now  you  have  all  that  you  can  learn  of  Col  Mont- 
gomeries  administration  from 


OADWALLADER  GOLDEN  TO  HIS  SON. 

Coldengham  Feb'^  21  1760 
My  Dear  Son 

In  my  last  I  had  finished  all  that  I  intended  to 
write  of  the  History  of  New  York,  within  the  period  to 
which  Mr  Smith  confines  his  History  :  and  I  should 
have  concluded  with  what  I  have  already  wrote  had  not 
Mr  Smith,  at  the  conclusion  of  his  history  made  a  large 
stride  to  reach  a  matter  of  posterior  date  relating  to  one 
Laughlin  Campbell.     Mr  Smith  has   so  grossly  misrep- 


ON  smith's  history.  227 

resented  this  whole  affair,  by  giving  a  false  account  of 
every  material  circumstance,  and  what  he  has  published 
is  so  egregious  a  calumny  of  Mr  Clark  Lt  Govr  of 
New  York  and  of  other  persons  interested  in  the  grant  of 
lands  in  New  York,  that  I  cannot  pass  it  over,  without 
giving  you  the  true  account  of  that  affair ;  in  doing  of 
which  I  have  had  my  memory  much  assisted  by  the 
papers  relating  to  it  which  remain  on  the  Council  file. 

After  great  numbers  of  families  had  transported 
themselves  from  the  North  of  Ireland  to  Pennsylvania, 
Laughlin  Campbel  in  the  year  1737  went  over  from  the 
island  of  Ila  in  Scotland  to  Pennsjdvania  to  learn  on 
what  [terms]  he  could  procure  lands  there,  for  a  num- 
ber of  families  which  he  proposed  to  bring  over  to  settle 
there.  While  he  was  at  Philadelphia  he  was  informed 
of  a  proclamation  ]:)ublished  by  Col  Cosby  the  late  Gov- 
ernor of  New  York  promising  100,000  acres  of  land 
free  of  all  charges  excepting  the  survey  and  Quitrents,  to 
be  granted  in  quantities  in  proportion  to  the  numbers  of 
persons  who  should  import  themselves  into  this  province 
in  order  to  settle  and  improve  lands.  Mr  Campbell  came 
to  New  York  from  Philadelphia  to  inform  himself  of  the 
truth  of  this.  But  before  I  proceed  farther  it  is  neces- 
sary to  inform  you  that  Col  Cosby  before  his  death  had 
found  means  to  have  a  grant  of  this  land  for  himself  in 
the  name  of  other  persons  in  trust  for  him  However 
iniquitously  this  may  have  been  don  it  had  put  it  out  of 
Mr  Clarks  power  to  grant  that  land  and  Mr  Campbell  in 
a  conference  with  Gov  Clark  and  the  Surveyor  Genl  of 
Lands  confessed  that  he  could  not  obtain  lands  in  Penn- 
sylvania otherwise  than  at  the  rate  of  £15  for  each  hun- 
dred acres,  besides  the  quitrent  and  charges  of  survey. 
He  was  then  informed  that  the  100,000  acres  was  al- 
ready granted,  but  that  he  could  have  other  lands  on 
much  easier  terms  than  he  can  in  Pennsylvania  or  any- 
where else  and  they  undertook  that  he  should  have  lands 
granted  in  proportion  to  the  number  of  families  imported 
at  the  rate  of  £3  sterling  for  every  hundred  acres  free 
of  the  charge  of  Indian  purchase  survey  and  other  ex- 


228  THE    GOLDEN    LETTERS 

pense  of  any  kind  except  the  Quitrent  with  which  he 
declared  himself  well  contented  However  before  he 
returned  to  Scotland  he  went  to  Maryland  to  learn  on 
what  terms  he  could  obtain  lands  there. 

The  next  year  Mr  Campbell  brought  over  30  families 
and  he  was  offered  a  grant  of  19,000  acres  for  himself 
free  of  all  charges  except  the  survej^  being  all  the  lands 
which  remained  of  those  which  had  been  purchased  which 
he  neglected  to  take  for  reasons  which  you  will  discover 
from  what  follows  afterwards.  In  August  1739  he 
brought  over  41  families  more  but  it  is  false  that  he 
brought  any  of  them  over  on  his  own  expense  in  such 
manner  that  he  or  his  family  suffered  thereby ;  for  all 
of  them  either  paid  him  for  their  passages  and  freight  of 
goods  or  bound  themselves  as  servants  as  usual  in  such 
cases  for  the  payment  and  he  disposed  of  these  servants 
■svith  profit  to  himself  as  is  usually  don  in  America  in 
like  cases. 

When  he  came  over  the  second  time  he  was  again 
offered  a  sufficient  quantity  of  land  on  the  terms  prom- 
ised him  before  he  imported  any  one  person  and  with 
which  he  had  declared  himself  contented  and  the  place 
the  land  was  to  be  set  out  for  him  was  named  to  him 
near  where  Fort  Edward  now  stands  but  he  insisted 
on  having  the  100,000  acres  promised  by  Col  Cosbys 
proclamation  on  the  terms  in  that  proclamation  and 
put  in  a  petition  to  the  Govr  and  Council  to  that  pur- 
pose which  occasioned  an  inquiry  and  examination  into 
the  transactions  previous  to  that  petition  as  will  appear 
by  the  reports  of  Committee  of  Council  appointed  for 
that  purpose  and  made  the  18th  and  22d  of  April  1741 
still  remaining  on  the  file  of  the  Council.  The  true  rea- 
son of  Mr  Campbells  declining  the  terms  to  Avhich  he 
had  agreed  before  these  families  were  imported  was 
that  he  and  the  persons  that  he  had  brought  over  with 
him  were  in  no  ability  to  comply  with  these  easy  terms 
and  much  less  in  ability  of  settling  and  improveing  new 
lands  till  such  times  as  they  could  mantain  themselves 
by  their  own  labor.     This  inability  was  well  known  at 


ON  smith's  history.  229 

the  time  and  may  still  proved  by  persons  living  who  came 
over  with  Mr  Campbell.  As  this  inability  was  an  unan- 
swerable objection  to  their  having  lands  on  any  terms 
Campbell  was  advised  to  apply  to  the  Assembly  for 
their  assistance  to  support  his  people  till  such  time  as 
they  should  be  able  to  support  themselves  which  he  did 
but  without  effect  For  the  Assembly  after  inquiry 
found  that  the  people  he  had  brought  over  with  him 
were  unwilling  to  settle  under  him  as  he  proposed  and 
Mr  Campbells  behavior  after  he  came  into  the  Country 
gave  the  Assembly  a  prejudice  so  far  to  his  disadvan- 
tage that  they  disliked  his  settling  on  the  frontiers. 
This  being  the  case  and  it  being  at  the  same  time  well 
known  that  no  part  of  the  100,000  acres  promised  by 
Col  Cosbys  proclamation  had  been  settled  pursuant  to 
that  Proclamation  he  had  nothing  to  say  or  no  game  to 
play  but  to  insist  on  the  benefit  of  that  proclamation 
as  a  matter  which  the  Government  was  absolutely 
obliged  to  perform.  Suppose  the  case  to  be  so,  yet  cer- 
tainly the  intention  of  that  proclamation  was  not  to 
give  land  to  persons  who  were  in  no  ability  to  settle 
and  cultivate  the  same  But  as  the  case  then  stood  it 
cannot  be  supposed  that  Gov  Clark  was  under  any  per- 
sonal obligation  to  be  at  the  charge  of  making  the  In- 
dian purchase  and  to  be  at  all  other  necessary  expenses 
out  of  his  own  pocket.  If  the  settling  of  the  frontiers 
at  that  time  by  these  people  had  been  of  public  benefit 
it  ought  to  have  been  at  the  public  expense.  Which 
the  assembly  refused  to  do  for  the  reasons  before  men- 
tioned as  most  of  the  people  who  came  over  with 
Mr  Campbell  were  unwilling  to  settle  on  the  frontiers 
they  met  with  no  disappomtment  They  dispersed 
themselves  among  the  inhabitants  and  provided  for 
their  families  as  others  had  usually  don  in  like  cases. 
You  knew  that  several  of  those  who  came  servants  with 
Mr  Campbell  are  now  possessed  of  valuable  farms  in 
their  own  right  in  fee  simple  Mr  Campbell  only  was 
disapointed  of  an  unreasonable  expectation  by  his  not 
obtaining  lands  at  other  people's  expense  in  order  to 


230  THE    GOLDEN    LETTERS 

make  merchandise  of  them  Mr  Smith  can  never  be 
excused  in  making  this  publication  without  makeing  use 
of  all  the  means  which  were  in  his  power  for  a  true  in- 
formation The  minutes  of  Council  he  tells  us  were 
open  to  him  for  his  perusal  They  would  have  sho^vn 
him  that  the  account  he  had  received  of  that  matter  can- 
not be  true  He  was  a  boy  at  the  time  these  things 
happened  and  he  could  have  no  knowledge  of  them  and 
therefor  I  cannot  pass  over  the  concluding  sentence  in 
his  narrative  without  particular  notice  viz  But  it  un- 
fortunately drop't  through  the  sordid  views  of  some  per- 
sons in  power  who  aimed  at  a  share  in  the  intended 
grant  to  which  Cam^jbell  who  tvas  a  man  of  spirit  would 
not  consent.  It  was  impossible  for  Mr  Smith  to  have 
such  evidence  of  this  fact  as  to  induce  any  man  of  the 
least  candor  to  publish  so  great  a  calumny  on  any  gentle- 
man, because  of  my  own  knowledge  it  is  false  and  none 
who  knew  Mr  Campbell  can  believe  it.  From  this  and 
many  other  parts  of  his  history,  Mr  Smith  appears  to 
be  fond  of  calumny  otherwise  he  would  have  made  use 
of  the  means  of  information  which  he  owns  were  in  his 
power. 

Mr  Smiths  history  has  been  of  use  to  me  in  the 
chronology  and  in  bringing  things  to  my  memory  which 
otherwise  might  have  escaped  me.  The  remarks  which 
I  have  made  have  helpt  at  times  to  fill  up  a  vacant  hour 
and  I  flatter  myself  they  may  be  usefull  to  any  who  in- 
tend to  write  the  hystory  of  New  York  when  personal 
prejudices  are  removed  and  posterity  can  judge  impar- 
tially. However  this  be  I  hope  they  may  be  of  use  to 
you  and  that  you  will  receive  them  as  an  instance  of 
Love  from  Your  affectionate  father 


CADWALLADER  GOLDEN  TO  HIS  SON. 

Dear  Son 

I  finished  in  my  last  all  that  I  intended  to  write  on 
that   period  of  time  to  which  Mr  Smith  confines   his 


ON  smith's  history.  231 

History  of  New  York  and  I  should  have  concluded 
with  what  I  have  already  wrote  had  not  Mr  Smith  at 
the  conclusion  of  his  book  made  a  large  stride  to  reach 
a  matter  of  posterior  date  relating  to  Captain  Laughlin 
Campbell.  Mr  Smith  has  so  grossly  misrepresented  this 
whole  affair  by  giveing  a  false  account  of  every  material 
circumstance  and  so  egregious  a  calumny  of  Mr  Clark 
and  of  other  persons  entrusted  with  the  grant  of  Lands 
that  I  can  not  pass  it  over  without  giveing  you  the  true 
account  of  this  matter 

Laughlin  Campbell  in  the  year  1737  arrived  in  Penn- 
sylvania from  Scotland  in  order  to  find  what  incourage- 
ment  he  could  have  to  settle  lands  in  that  Colony  The 
only  terms  on  which  he  could  obtain  lands  there  as  he 
himself  afterwards  related  were  at  the  rate  of  .£15  for  each 
hundred  acres  besides  the  Quitrent  and  charges  of  sur- 
vey and  other  officers  fees  While  he  was  in  Pennsylvania 
he  heard  of  an  encouragement  from  Col  Cosby  which  had 
been  offered  for  settling  of  100,000  acres  of  land  on  the 
frontiers  of  New  York  and  therefor  came  to  New  York 
to  learn  on  what  terms  he  could  obtain  lands  there. 
Col  Cosby  had  published  a  proclamation  with  consent  of 
Council  inviting  protestants  to  transport  themselves  to 
the  province  of  New  York  with  a  promise  of  100,000 
acres  already  purchased  of  the  Indians  to  be  granted  to 
them  at  a  certain  rate  or  number  of  acres  to  each  family 
free  of  all  charges.  The  particular  account  of  this  may 
come  properly  in  the  history  of  Col  Cosby's  administra- 
tion it  is  sufficient  in  the  present  case  to  tell  that  by 
sinister  means  this  land  was  granted  by  Col  Cosby  in  trust 
for  himself  and  therefore  at  the  time  Mr  Campbel  came 
to  New  York  it  was  not  in  Mr  Clark's  power  to  grant 
that  land  Mr  Campbel  was  told  that  the  100,000  acres 
of  land  mentioned  in  the  publication  made  by  Governor 
Cosby  had  been  already  granted.  He  was  in- 
foniied  of  the  usual  method  of  obtaining  lands  in  this 
province  viz  By  first  purchasing  the  lands  of  the  Indians 
haveing  the  same  surveyed  and  afterwards  a  patent  un- 
der the  Kings  seal  for  this  province  He  objecting  to  the 


232  THE    GOLDEN    LETTERS 

difficulties  which  a  stranger  might  have  in  making  the 
purchase  and  the  other  expenses  which  might  attend  the 
procuring  a  patent  for  the  same  in  order  to  incourage 
the  settling  of  the  frontiers.  The  Governor  and  Sur- 
veyor General  of  lands  undertook  to  make  the  purchase 
of  the  lands  from  the  Indians  and  to  be  at  the  charge 
of  survey  and  the  fees  of  the  officers  in  obtaining  a 
patent  at  the  rate  of  <£3  Sterling  for  every  hundred 
acres  He  was  pleased  with  this  proposal,  and  promised 
to  bring  over  a  number  of  families  to  settle  lands  on 
these  conditions.  Notwithstanding  of  this  after  he  had 
left  New  York  he  went  to  Maryland  and  finding  that  he 
could  obtain  lands  no  where  on  so  easy  terms  as  in  New 
York  he  the  next  year  brought  over  30  families  On  the 
importation  of  these  families  he  was  offered  a  grant  of 
19,000  acres  of  land  free  of  all  charges  except  that  of  the 
survey  which  he  neglected  to  take  for  reasons  which  you 
will  perceive  by  what  follows  afterwards.  In  August 
1739  he  brought  over  41  families  more  but  it  is  false 
that  he  brought  them  over  or  any  of  them  on  his  own 
expense  for  all  of  them  either  paid  him  for  their  passages 
and  freight  of  their  goods  or  bound  themselves  as  servants 
for  the  payment.  He  was  so  far  from  being  a  sufferer 
that  he  made  a  considerable  profit  by  the  importation  of 
these  people.  After  his  arrival  the  2d  time  he  was 
offered  land  on  the  conditions  offered  to  him  at  his  first 
coming  to  New  York  with  which  he  did  not  comply 
and  probably  was  not  in  any  capacity  to  comply.  But 
what  principally  obstructed  the  Grant  was  that  Capt 
Campbel  (as  Mr  Smith  calls  him)  was  in  no  ability  to 
settle  these  families  either  by  himself  or  Avith  the  assist- 
ance of  those  that  came  over  with  them.  This 
inability  was  notorious  to  all  who  knew  Mr  Campbell 
and  the  persons  who  came  over  with  them.  He  was  advised 
to  apply  to  the  assembly  for  their  assistance  to  make 
that  settlement  for  security  of  the  Frontiers  but  the 
assembly  declined  giving  any  assistance  because  many  of 
those  he  had  brought  over  with  him  refused  to  settle  un- 
der him  saying  that  they  had  left  their  own  country  to 


ON  smith's  histoky.  233 

free  themselves  from  the  Vassalage  they  were  under  to 
their  Lords  there  and  would  not  become  vassals  to  Laugh- 
lin  Campbel  in  America  and  few  or  none  of  them  were 
willing  to  settle  on  the  frontiers  towards  Canada  The 
Assembly  at  the  same  time  entertained  a  bad  opinion  of 
Mr  Campbel  as  one  not  proper  to  be  trusted.  Mr  Smith 
says  that  the  execution  of  this  project  so  beneficial  to  the 
province  failed  by  a  breach  of  private  faith  and  public 
honour  through  the  sordid  views  of  some  persons  in 
power  who  aimed  at  a  share  in  the  intended  grant  to 
which  Mr  Campbel  who  was  a  man  of  spirit  would 
not  consent.  This  assertion  to  my  own  knowledge  is 
absolutely  false  When  these  things  happened  Mr  Smith 
was  a  boy  and  could  have  no  knowledge  of  them 
and  it  is  impossible  that  he  could  have  any  evidence  of 
what  he  asserts  such  as  could  induce  a  man  of  the  least 
candour  to  publish  such  vile  reflections  of  any  other  per- 
son. It  is  true  that  Mr  Campbel  insisted  on  his  pre- 
tensions for  a  grant  of  Land  pursuant  to  Col  Cosby's 
advertisement  tho  he  had  been  told  before  he  imported 
any  person  that  the  lands  mentioned  in  that  advertise- 
ment had  been  already  granted  by  Col  Cosby  because  he 
had  nothing  else  to  found  his  pretensions  on.  There  were 
then  no  lands  to  be  granted  which  had  been  purchased  of 
the  Indians  and  the  Government  was  persuaded  that 
Mr  Campbel  sued  for  a  grant  with  a  view  only  to  make 
merchandise  of  the  same  as  he  was  incapable  of  settling 
a  large  tract.  This  they  thought  intirely  opposite  to  the 
view  they  had  of  incouraging  the  settHng  of  the  Fron- 
tiers. No  man  will  easily  believe  that  Mr  Campbel 
would  have  refused  any  person  a  share  with  him  who 
had  power  or  influence  enough  to  obtain  a  grant  of  so 
large  a  tract  for  him.  What  I  now  write  I  not  only 
assert  on  my  own  knowledge  but  I  may  refer  to  many 
still  living  and  particularly  to  the  persons  that  Mr 
Campbel  brought  over  with  tiim  for  contirniation  of  the 
same.  But  the  whole  may  be  more  easily  cleared  up  by  a 
report  of  a  Committee  of  Council  the  18th  and  2  2d  of 
April  1741  which  was  appointed  to  inquire  and  examine 


234  THE    GOLDEN   LETTERS 

into  Mr  Campbels  pretensions.  Mr  Smith  vouches  his 
having  had  the  minutes  of  Council  under  his  perusal 
as  vouchers  for  the  truth  of  what  he  writes  in  his  History 
In  the  report  of  the  Committee  many  particulars  appear 
to  Mr  Campbels  prejudice  which  now  he  is  dead  I 
choose  not  to  repeat.  But  in  this  case  the  Council  and 
Mr  Smith  are  in  direct  contradiction.  When  it  is  con- 
sidered that  the  minutes  of  Council  are  transmitted  to 
the  board  of  Trade  and  plantations  it  is  not  likely  that 
Mr  Campbel  could  meet  with  what  Mr  Smith  calls  re- 
dress there. 

[As  Mr  Campbell  in  his  petition  allwise  refers 
to  a  publication  by  Col  Cosby  of  100,000  acres  of  land 
allready  purchased  of  the  Indians  which  he  promised 
such  as  should  transport  themselves  into  this  province  I 
do  not  pretend  to  justify  what  was  don  by  Col  Cosby 
with  respect  to  those  lands  All  I  say  is  that  they  were 
granted  before  Mr  Campbel  came  first  to  New  York 
and  he  knew  that  they  were  not  then  in  the  power  of  the 
Government] 

It  appears  by  the  remarks  which  I  have  made 
on  several  parts  of  Mr  Smiths  history  that  his  re- 
publican and  independent  principles  have  so  far  preju- 
diced him  against  Governors  that  in  many  instances  he 
slanders  their  administration  without  any  foundation 
and  in  none  more  than  this  for  it  appears  evidently  when 
the  truth  is  known  that  the  Governor  and  Sur- 
veyor General  were  at  that  time  zealous  in  promoting 
the  settlement  of  the  frontiers  by  the  families  which  Mr 
Campbel  imported  had  it  been  in  their  power  to  do  it 
and  had  not  he  by  his  bad  conduct  and  private  sinister 
views  prevented  the  assistance  which  the  assembly  other- 
wise might  have  given  towards  makeing  that  settlement 
The  agreement  made  with  Mr  Campbel  by  the  Gov"" 
and  Surv''  Gen'  shews  it  was  on  much  easier  terms 
than  lands  could  be  at  that  time  obtained  so  easy 
that  they  could  not  thereby  propose  any  private  ad- 
vantage to  themselves  and  yet  he  never  mentioned  this 
agreement  in  any  petition  he  made  on  this  occasion  tho' 


ON    SMITFl's    HISTORY.  235 

he  confessed  it  before  the  committee  because  lie  was  not 
in  a  capacity  to  comply  it  was  inconsistent  with  the  real 
view  he  had  of  obtaining  these  lands  for  merchandise 
Mr  Smith  by  makeing  the  least  reflection  if  he  had  in- 
clined to  have  considered  the  matter  impartially  might 
easily  see  that  it  could  not  be  expected  that  the  Gov- 
ernor or  other  officers  intrusted  with  the  grant  of  lands 
could  make  the  purchase  at  their  own  expense  and  the 
necessary  surveys  of  such  a  large  tract  and  far  less  at 
their  own  expense  go  through  all  the  charges  necessary 
for  making  the  settlements  and  maintaining  the  people 
till  they  could  maintain  themselves  by  their  own  labour 
for  it  is  most  certain  that  Mr  Campbel  and  his  companj^ 
were  in  no  capacity  of  settling  themselves  even  supposing 
the  land  had  been  given  them  free  of  all  charges  He 
might  on  the  least  reflection  see  that  their  private  for- 
tunes were  not  sufficient  for  such  an  undertaking  and 
unless  this  expense  could  be  some  way  provided  for  it  Avas 
impossible  to  make  the  proposed  settlement  and  that 
without  this  were  previously  taken  care  of  the  granting 
of  such  a  large  tract  of  land  could  only  serve  private 
and  sinister  purposes.  Never  was  a  laudable  zeal  for 
the  public  benefit  more  grossly  and  injuriously  misrepre- 
sented than  this  has  been  don. 


III. 


DOCUMENTS 


RELATING  TO 


THE    ADMINISTRATION 


JACOB  LEISLBR. 


NOTE 


The  Journals  of  the  New  York  Council  and  Convention  which 
are  here  given  are  copies  from  the  originals  in  the  British  Public  Re- 
cord Office  ( Colonial  Entry  BooJc,  No.  75),  where  they  have  hither- 
to escaped  the  attention  of  students  of  our  Colonial  history.  They 
are  mentioned  in  a  letter  of  the  Council  of  New  York  to  the  Earl 
of  Shrewsbury,  with  which  they  were  transmitted  to  England 
June  10,  1689  {N.  Y.  Col.  Doe.  III.  585),  and  in  common  with 
most  of  the  other  documents  which  follow  were  procured  by  Mr, 
George  H,  Moore,  in  the  course  of  researches  for  his  collection 
of  the  Statutes  at  Large  of  N^ew- York  from  1664  to  1691, 

Of  those  which  follow  the  Journals,  the  greater  part  have  been 
copied  from  the  manuscripts  of  Pierre  Eugene  Du  Simitiere,  most 
of  which  are  preserved  in  the  collection  of  the  Library  Company 
of  Philadelphia.  Du  Simitiere  describes  them  as  "  Copies  of 
Original  Papers  relating  to  the  publick  transactions  in  the  Province 
of  New  York  at  the  time  of  the  Revolution  and  for  several  years 
afterwards  beginning  [with  the]  latter  end  of  the  administration  of 
Lieut.  Gov.  Nicholson  and  during  the  Government  of  Capt"  Jacob 
Leisler,  Colo.  Slaughter,  Maj.  Ingoldsby,  Gov.  Fletcher  and  the 
Earl  of  Bellomont  containing  the  publick  proceedings  of  Capt" 
Jacob  Leisler,  of  Major  Ingoldsby,  Col.  Bayard  and  others,  an  ac. 
count  of  Leisler  and  Milborne's  tryal  and  execution  and  the 
methods  taken  by  his  son  Jacob  Leisler  in  England  to  have  the 
attainder  reversed  and  their  estates  restored  to  the  family,  with  all 
the  petitions  to  the  King,  Queen,  House  of  Lords,  Lords  of  Com- 
mittee of  Trade  and  Plantations,  &c.  together  with  several  acts 
of  Parliament  and  Assembly  and  many  other  original  papers  con- 
cerning the  said  transactions.  Copied  from  the  originals  in  the 
possession  of  Mr,  Abraham  Gouverneur  of  New  York,  great-grand- 


240  PREFATORY   NOTE. 

son  of  Capt.  Jacob  Leisler,  who  favored  me  with  the  use  of  them 
in  August,  1769." 

Mrs.  Farmer,  a  daughter  of  Abraham  Gouverneur  who  married 
the  widow  of  Milborne,  also  appears  to  have  had  some  of  the  family- 
papers  in  her  possession  in  July,  1759,  at  which  time  she  furnished 
Smith  the  historian  with  a  copy  of  the  Act  reversing  the  attainders, 
which  he  added  in  a  note  to  his  revised  work. 

They  were  evidently  the  family  papers  of  the  Lei slers,  collected 
and  preserved  as  the  documents  on  which  they  relied  for  the  vin- 
dication of  the  sufferers  and  the  support  of  their  claims  for  redress. 
(See  '"''Loyalty  Vindicated^''  etc., post,  pp.  385-386.) 

If  the  originals  are  still  in  existence,  they  seem  to  be  unknown 
to  our  historical  students,  who  owe  a  large  debt  of  gratitude  to 
the  memory  of  the  accomplished  artist-stranger  who  devoted 
himself  with  so  great  assiduity  to  the  collection  of  materials  to 
illustrate  the  history  of  his  adopted  .country,  and  whose  labors  in 
this  field  are  hardly  indicated  in  the  extracts  from  them  which 
are  presented  in  the  following  pages.  A  suitable  biography  of  this 
neglected  and  almost  forgotten  pioneer  in  American  History 
would  be  a  just  and  honorable  though  tardy  tribute  to  his  fame, 
creditable  alike  to  its  author  and  subject. 

Some  of  the  papers  in  the  Du  Simitiere  collection  were  copied 
many  years  ago,  probably  for  the  late  Dr.  Miller,  and  these  copies 
are  in  the  Society's  collection  of  MSS.  As  they  have  been  printed, 
with  many  additional  documents  fi'om  the  State  archives  in  the 
second  volume  of  the  Documentary  History  of  New  York,  it  is  not 
deemed  advisable  to  reprint  them  here. 

The  Society  is  indebted  to  Mr.  S.  Alofsen  for  the  translations 
of  the  Dutch  Documents  which  appear  in  the  following  pages; 
and  to  Mr.  Lloyd  P.  Smith,  Librarian  of  the  Library  Company 
of  Philadelphia,  for  liberal  facilities  in  the  use  of  the  treasures  iu 
his  care. 


DOCUMENTS   RELATING  TO 
THE  ADMINISTRATION  OE  LEISLEK 


Minutes  of  the  Councell  att  New  Yorke  from  pmo 
March  to  June  the  [eleventh]  1689. 
Fortt  James  Frayday  the  first  day  of  March  168|-. 

Present : 

The  Leften*  Govern"'*  Nicholson 
Major  Eredrick  Phillips 
Major  Steph.  Van  Cortlandt 
Coll.  NiCH.  Bayard. 

This  (lay  came  Robertt  Ewel  and  John  Teysack  from 
Philadelphia  and  brought  unto  the  leften*  Gouverno"" 
Nicholson,  a  letter  from  Cap"  John  Blackwell  Gouverno"" 
of  Pensilvania  with  a  copy  off  an  examination  off  one 
Zagharia  Wliitepaine  lately  come  from  England.  The 
substance  off  which  Examination  is  that  the  Prince  off 
Oranoe  had  invaded  Eno;land  and  severall  other  trans- 
actions  there,  as  by  said  examination  more  att  large 
appeares.* 

The  said  letter  and  examination  being  read  Robert 
Ewel  and  John  Teysack  ware  examined  about  the  pre- 
mises, and  said  last  Saturday  night  Zaghariah  Wliite- 
paine  arrived  att  Philadelphia  whereupon  the  said  John 
Teysack  was  commanded  to  call  the  councel  there  to- 
gether.      Who  being  mett  the  said  Zaghariah  White- 

[*  The  examination  is  printed  in  tlie  Minutes  of  the  Provincial  Council  of 
Pennsylvania,  24th  February,  1688-9.    Colonial  Records :  i.  246,  249.    Whit- 
paiue  left  Londoa  on  the  luth  or  12th  of  December,  1688.] 
16 


242  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

paine  was  examined,  and  thatt  the  said  Governor  Black- 
well  r2;ave  unto  the  said  John  Teysack  the  above  said 
letter  to  carry  and  deliver  the  same  unto  the  Leitenant 
Gouverno""  Francis  Nicholson  att  New  Yorcke. 

The  said  Robertt  Ewel  and  John  Teysak  alsoo 
lirought  severall  letters  for  ^ticular  Inhabitants  in  this 
Towne  beinge  seaventeen  in  number  w"^  they  delivered 
to  this  Board. 

Resolved,  that  for  the  prevention  off  any  tumult  and 
the  divulging  of  soe  strange  news.  The  said  letters  be 
opened  to  see  if  they  contained  the  same  substance  off 
England's  being  invaded,  which  was  forthwith  done,  and 
seen.  That  in  a  letter  from  John  Blackwell  directed  to 
William  Blackwell  Marchant  att  Boston  alsoo  one  letter 
from  Le  Tort  directed  to  Isaack  Des  Champs  march*  att 
New  Yorcke,  contained  the  same  news  which  made  this 
Board  give  the  more  creditt  to  itt. 

Whereupon  it  was  further  resolved  forthwith  to  send 
Expresses  both  by  water  and  land,  unto  his  Excellency 
S""  Edmond  Andros  Governou''  in  chieff  to  acquaint  him 
with  this  matter,  and  to  send  unto  him  a  coppy  off  the 
letter  of  Examination  as  alsoo  the  letter  directed  to 
William  Blackwell,  and  that  the  other  letters  except 
that  of  IM""  Des  Champs  should  be  sent  to  the  Post 
house  to  be  delivered  to  y^  owners  w"^  was  accordingly 
done. 

Soe  copies  ware  taken  and  sent  by  water  with  Thomas 
Broocks,  and  by  land  with  English  Smith,  expresse  sent 
for  this  purpose  with  this  following  letter,  viz" : — 

New  Yorcke  168|  March  the  2°"*. 
Sr, 

Yesterday  morning  was  the  Post  John  Perry  dis- 
patched from  hence  to  your  Excellency,  since  the  Leften- 
ant  Gouvern*"  received  this  morning  a  letter  from  GouV- 
erno''  Blackwell  from  Pensilvania,  a  copy  whereoff  is 
here  inclosed  together  with  the  news  that  he  relates  was 
come  to  his  hands,  which  we  find  to  be  off  thatt  import 
that  we  have  thought  it  our  Duty  to  communicate  the 


ADMINISTRATION    OF   LEISLER.  243 

same  to  y""  Excellency  by  this  Expresse  Soe  with  all 
humility  desiring  y'"  Excellencies  comands  in  these  parts 
wee  Kemaine 

S""  y""  Excellencies  humble  Serv** 
F.  Nicholson 
Fred^  Phillips 
Steph.  Van  Cortlandt 
Nich.  Bayard 

Resolved,  thatt  M""  Matthew  Plowman  shall  pay  unto 
English  Smith  six  pounds  in  money  to  defray  his  charges 
to  Boston,  and  what  he  shall  desei^^e  more  is  referred  to 
his  Excellency. 

This  Board  considring  thatt  his  Majesties  money  and 
the  contreis  for  the  Tax  in  the  hands  off  M'"  Matthew 
Plowman  his  Majesties  collector  is  not  safe  at  his  lodging 
being  a  private  house  and  a  great  distance  from  the  Fortt, 

Resolved,  that  the  said  Collector  bring  all  the  said 
money  he  hath  in  his  hands  into  his  Majesties  Fort 
James  there  to  be  locked  up  in  a  strong  chest  and  sealed 
by  him  for  the  better  securing  off  the  same  till  further 
order  from  his  Excellency. 

New  Yorcke,  1689,  J._^m7  the  W" 
Whereas  information  hath  been  given  unto  the  Lef- 
tenant  Governo'"  off  a  ship  being  in  distresse  and  having 
lost  his  masts  near  Barnegate  The  Leftenant  Gouver- 
nour  gave  the  following  certificate  and  order  to  help  the 
said  ship  to  be  brought  up,  viz. 

By  the  Leften*  Gouvernor. 
Whereas  I  am  informed  that  a  ship  or  vessel  about 
ten  miles  off  from  Sandy  point  is  seen  lying  att  ancor 
without  any  masts  and  in  distresse,  These  are  therefore 
to  certifie  all  whom  it  may  concerne  that  Cap*  Benjamin 
Blagge  and  M''  Gabriell  Thomason  in  the  sloope  Hope- 
well are  sent  downe  to  enquu-e  after  said  ship  or  vessell 
and  to  assist  her  (if  need  bee)  as  much  as  they  are  able 
to  doe. 


244  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

Given  under  my  hand  and  seale  in  New  Yorcke  this 
15*^day  off  Aprill  A  J  689. 

Fr.  Nicholson. 

Pursuant  to  send  orderBenjaminBlagge  sailed  thither 
and  found  the  ship  to  belong  to  Milfortt  Samuel  Fitz 
Comander  from  Barbadoes,  and  came  up  with  her  to 
New  Yorcke. 

Order  was  given  to  M*"  Matthew  Plowman  to  pay 
unto  M'  Blagge  and  M""  Gabriell  Thompson  for  sloop 
hire  &  provision  &c,  the  sum  of  foure  pounds  eight  shil- 
lings and  six  pence. 

New  Yorcke  1689— xlj^rzY  the  26"^ 

The  Leften*  Governou'"  conveaned  those  off  the  Coun- 
cel  here  together  and  produced  a  declaration  from  the 
gentlemen,  marchants  and  Inhabitants  off  Boston,  and 
the  Country  adjacent  dated  Aprill  the  eighteenth  1689, 
setting  forth  the  reasons  for  their  apprehending  and  tak- 
ing in  custody  his  Excellency  the  Gouvernor  Sr.  Edmond 
An  dross.  Then  one  M""  Veasey  an  enseign  off  a  Com- 
pany in  Brantry  near  Boston  who  brought  the  abovesaid 
declaration  to  the  Leftenant  Gouverno''  appeared  and 
rescited  thatt 

His  Excellency  S""  Edmond  Andros  by  the  Inhabi- 
tants off  Boston  the  IS*''  instant  was  secured  in  the  Fortt 
att  Boston,  That  they  had  taken  the  Castel  and  the  Fri- 
gatt,  That  they  had  seized  Capt.  George,  Capt.  Trifry, 
Enseign  Andros,  M*"  Randlph,  West,  Graham  Palmer 
ITscher,  Leggit,  Belliafant  ond  others  and  committed 
them  to  the  prison.  That  Capt.  Winthrop,  Coll.  Srimp- 
ton.  Coll.  Page,  John  Nelson,  &c.,  ware  the  chief  actors 
in  this  affaire. 

This  news  was  a  great  surprizall  to  the  Leftenant 
Gouvernor  and  Councill,  and  being  but  foure  in  number 
it  was 

Besolved,  That  the  Mayer  should  call  the  Aldermen 
and  Comon  Councill  fortwith  together  to  acquaint  them 
with  this  ill  news,  and  to  advise  together  what  best  is  to 


ADMINISTRATION    OF   LEISLER.  245 

be  done  for  his  Majesties  service  and  the  quieting  of  the 
Inhabitants  in  this  conjuncture  and  troublesome  times. 

New  Yorcke,  1689.     Aiwil  the  27'* 
The  Leften*  Gouverno''  Nicholson. 
Major  Fredrick  Phillips. 
Coll.  NicH.  Bayard, 
Stephanus  Van  Cortlandt. 

Upon  hearing  the  Revolutions  att  Boston  and  rumors 
of  war  from  abroad  between  England  and  French  and 
the  number  off  the  Councill  being  soe  few,  considring 
the  necessity  that  all  affairs  ought  to  be  put  m  good 
order,  the  peace  kept  and  gouvernement  secured  from 
invasion  abroad 

Its  ordered  and  resolved, 

That  the  Mayor,  Aldermen  and  Conion  Councell  with 
the  Chief  military  officers  be  called  together  this  after- 
noone  to  meet  the  Leftenant  Gou^ernor  and  Councill 
att  the  Towne  Hall.  There  to  advise  whatt  need- 
ful is  to  be  done  in  this  troublesome  times  for  the 
quietnesse  off  the  people  and  security  off  the  Gouvern- 
ment.* 

And  some  of  the  Councell  informing  the  Gouverno' 
of  the  jealousies  and  fears  off  the  Inhabitants  of  this 
Citty  by  reason  of  the  small  number  off  soldiers  in  the 
Fortt,  and  most  of  them  infirme  and  old  and  thatt  it 
would  bee  demanded  by  some  off  the  Cap^^  off  the  mili- 
tia That  some  off  their  soldiers  might  keep  the  guard  in 
the  Fortt,  to  prevent  the  same,  it  was  resolved  to  pro- 
])ose  the  same  to  them  To  shew  our  willingnesse  to  de- 
fend the  fortt  Citty  and  Gouvernmentt  against  any 
comon  enemy. 

That  alsoo  the  Justices  off  the  peace  and  Cheeff  mili- 
tary officers  in  the  severall  Counties  be  sent  for  To  tell 
them  of  their  duty  and  to  be  aiding  and  assisting  to 

[*  The  Minutes  of  the  General  Meetings  held  under  this  call  on  the  27th 
April  and  subsequently  until  the  6th  of  June,  1689,  follow  these  Council 
Minutes  in  this  volume:  post:  pp.  272-290.] 


246  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

keep  the  people  in  peace  and  to  endeavour  the  welfare 
and  security  off  the  government. 

Then  ihe  following  letter  was  sent. 

New  Yorcke  1689,  Ap""  the  27*\ 
Gentlemen, 

Having  received  the  surprising  news  that  the  Inhabi- 
tants off  Boston  have  sett  up  a  government  for  them- 
selves, and  alsoo  off  rumors  of  warr  from  abroad  it  is 
thought  necessary  to  convene  some  off  the  cheef  officers 
to  meet  us.  These  are  therefore  to  desire  That  the  sev- 
erall  Justices  off  the  Peace  Leften*  Cornells,  Majors  and 
Captaines  now  in  Comission  in  your  County,  appeare 
before  us  heare  att  New  Yorke  on 

att  two  off  the  clocke  in  the   afternoone  to  advise  what 
best  is   to  be  done  for  the  safety  and  security  off  the 
Province  soe  not  doubting  off  your  complyance 
Pemaine  y""  frinds 

Fr.  Nicholson 

Fred.  Phillips 

Step.  Van  Cortlandt 

Nich.  Bayard. 

This  letter  was  sent  to  the  severall  Counties  to  meet 
according  to  their  distances  from  New  Yorcke  and  not 
to  hinder  them  from  their  businesse  att  home,  viz*, 
Kings  County  to  meet  next  Monday 
Queens  County  Tuesday 

Westchester  County  Wednesday 

Bergen  County  Thiresday 

Richmond  County  the  same 

Collonell  Hamelton  att  Amboy  ye  same. 

Monday  the  29"'  off  Aprill 
The  Justices  oft'  the  Paice,  and  Cap*'  off  the  militia  in 
King's  County  came,  and  promised  to  doe  all  their  en- 
deavours to  keep  the  people  in  quietnesse  and  defend 
the  country  against  the  comon  ennemy  and  resolved  to 
sett  out  a  centry  att  Conny  Island  to  keep  a  continuell 


ADMINISTRATION  OF  LEISLER.  247 

watch  to  looke  out  at  sea,  and  if  above  two  ships  comes 
together  then  to  send  an  expresse  to  the  Gouvernor  to 
acquaint  his  honor  therewith,  and  that  the  forces  of  said 
County  should  march  to  Nesack  Bay  to  hinder  any 
landing,  if  an  ennemy,  and  if  it  should  happen  that  the 
enemy  should  land,  then  the  Gouvernor  is  resolved  to 
gether  all  the  strengt  he  can  to  beat  the  ennemy  from 
Long  Island.  But  if  the  ennemy  should  saile  thorrow 
the  narrows  up  to  New  Yorcke  then  the  forces  off  Kings 
County  are  to  march  to  New  Yorcke  and  the  boats  at 
New  Yorcke  shall  be  sent  to  bring  them  over.  In  mean- 
time orders  should  be  sent  to  the  coimties  of  Westchester, 
Queens,  Bichmond,  and  Bergen  County  to  assist  us 
with  A\hat  men  they  can. 

Thursday  the  ^Oth  off  Aprill. 
Major  Willett,  Capt.  Jackson  and  other  civil  and 
military  officers  from  Queens  County  came  and  met  the 
Gouvernour  &  Councill  and  promised  all  the  assistance 
their  country  can  afford,  and  would  endeavour  to  en- 
courage the  inhabitants  to  peace  and  quietnesse. 

Wednesday^  the  first  day  of  May. 
Capt.    Panton  and  other  officers  from  Westchester 
came  and  promised  all  assistance  their  county  can  aford 
upon  notice  given  and  that  they  would  endeavour  to 
keep  their  people  in  peace  and  quietnesse. 

Thursday  the  '2d  off  May. 
The  Justices  off  the  peace  off  Bergen  County  and 
East  Yarsay  came  and  mett  the  Gouvernor,  viz\  Coll, 
Hamilton,  Coll.  Townly,  Capt.  Berry,  Capt.  Bowne  & 
Magistrates  off  Bergen  all  promising  that  they  would  be 
aiding  and  assisting  to  reprias  any  comon  eneni}'  and 
because  there  are  noe  military  officers  in  comission  in 
the  County  or  corporation  off  Bergen,  Hans  Diderich 
was  appointed  Capt.  Jurriaen  Thomas  Leftenant  and 
Claes  Teers  Enseigne  off  said  Corporation  and  com- 
missions given  accordingly.     A  long  debate  was  about 


248  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

setting  up  beacons  upon  the  highland  off  Kensselaers 
hoocke  but  nothing  concluded. 

Fnjday  the  ^d  of  May. 

The  civill  and  military  officers  from  Richmond 
County  came  and  mett  the  Gouvernor  and  Coancell  att 
the  towne-hall. 

The  Gouvernor  recommended  to  them  to  be  watch- 
full  with  courage  and  if  any  ships  above  the  number  off 
two  should  come  within  Sandy  hooke  to  give  us  notice 
thereoff  and  in  meantime  to  keep  peace  and  unity 
amongst  the  people  which  they  promised  to  doe. 

It  was  alsoe  the  27tli  off  Aprill  past  considering  the 
small  number  off'  Councell  that  is  remaining  off  thirty 
nine,  and  not  authorized  to  act  as  a  greater  number 
could  doe  That  the  following  letter  be  sent  to  the  rest 
of  the  Councell,  viz\ 

New  Yorcke,  1689  Aprill  the  27th. 

Sr.    ^ 

Having  received  the  surprizing  news  that  the  In- 
habitants of  Boston  have  sett  up  a  Gouvernment  for 
themselves  and  disabled  his  Excellency  the  Capt.  Gen- 
erall  and  Gouvernor  in  Chieff  from  acting  in  the  govern- 
ment These  are  therefore  to  desire  you  That  you  would 
come  with  all  expedition  to  advise  and  consult  with  us 
what  proper  is  to  be  done  for  the  safety  and  welfare  off 
the  Gouvernment  this  Citty  and  part  of  the  gouvernment 
being  resolved  to  continue  in  their  station  till  further 
order.     Soe  not  doubting  off  y'^  complyance  Remaine, 
y  friends  &  humble  Servants 
Fr.  Nicholson 
Fred.  Phillips 
Step.  Van  Cortlandt, 
Nich.  Bayard. 

This  letter  was  sent  to 

Major  Generall  Winthrop 

Cornell  Treat 

Cornell  Allen 

Cornell  Yonars 


ADMINISTRATION   OF   LEISLEE.  249 

Cornell  Pinchere 
Walter  Clarke  Esq. 
Walter  Newburry  Esq. 
Major  Smith 

To  each  of  them  a  Letter. 

New  Yorcke  1G89,  A2Drai  30'' 
The  Leftent  Gouvernor  &  Councill  mett  con sicl ring 
the  dangerous  times  and  for  the  prevention  off  disturb- 
ances did  think  it  convenient  to  send  the  following  let- 
ters to  the  Magistrates  off  Albany  and  Ulster  to  desire 
them  to  keep  all  people  in  peace  and  quietnesse,  viz^ 

New  Yorke  1689,  Aprill  the  30th. 
Gentlemen, 

Having  heard  the  surprizing  news  that 
the  Inhabitants  of  Boston  have  seized  upon  the  person 
off  his  Excellency  Sr.  Edmond  Andros  the  Gouvernor 
in  Chieffe  and  severall  other  persons  off  quality.     These 
are  therefore  to  acquaint  you  therewith  and  to  desire 
all  magistrates,  justices  of  the  peace,  sherriftes  Consta- 
bles &c.  to  use  their  utmost  endeavours  to  keep  all  per- 
sons in  peace  and  quietnesse  and  that  all  military  officers 
keep  good  watch  and  their  men  all  well  exercised,  arm- 
ed and  equipt  according  to  law,   Soe  remain  Yr.  friends 
Fr.  Nicholson 
Fred.  Philips 
Steph.  Van  Cortlandt 
Nich.  Bayard 
To  the  Civil  and 
Military  Officers 
att  Ulster. 

New  Yorcke  1689,  Ap.  the  30*^ 
S' 
Wee  are  hartly  sorrow  to  acquaint  you  off  the  ill 
news  that  the  bastaines  have  seized  his  Excellency  Sr. 
Edmond  Andros  the  Gouvernor  with  severall  other 
gentlemen.  Wee  are  at  quiit  and  hope  it  is  so  with 
you,    wee   dajly   expect  to   hear   from   England   and 


250  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

further  news  from  Boston,  and  as  soon  as  it  comes  to 
us,  shall  acquaint  you  therewith  by  the  first  opportunity 
in  meane  time  wee  desire  that  you  will  doe  your  endeavor 
to  keep  all  people  in  peace  and  quiitnesse.  Soe  remain 
Your  frinds 

Fr.  Nicholson 

Fred.  Phillips 

Step.  Van  Cortlandt. 

Nich.  Bayard. 
To  Major  Baxter 

one  off  the  Councell  and  Coniander 
att  Fort  Albany. 

New  Yorche,  1689.     May  the  first. 

The  Left  en*  Gouverno'"  and  Councell  mett  thincking 
it  to  be  their  duty  to  write  the  following  letter  to  his  Ex- 
cellency S*"  Edmond  Andros  the  Gouvern""  in  Chieff  yv/} 

May  it  Please  Y""  Excellency. 

It  was  an  extraordinary  surprizall  for  us  to 
hear  off  the  Confusions  that  the  Inhabitants  att  Boston 
have  occasioned  in  the  Gouvernment  by  usurping  that 
part  off  the  Gouvernment  to  themselves,  and  that  they 
have  seized  the  person  of  your  Excellency  and  soverall 
off  your  officers.  Wee  cannott  imagine  that  any  such 
actions  can  proceed  from  any  person  of  quality  amongst 
them,  but  rather  promoted  by  the  rable.  And  that  for 
the  safety  off  your  Excellency's  person  those  measures 
have  been  taken,  butt  hope  and  doubt  not  before  this 
the  furie  of  those  ill  psons  may  be  allaied,  and  that  your 
Excellency  and  the  rest  off  the  ofiicers  may  be  restored 
to  their  former  station.  In  the  meantime  wee  can  doe 
noe  lesse  than  as  to  condole  your  Excell"*  troubles.  And 
as  for  this  part  off  the  gouvernment  wee  find  the  peoj^le 
in  generall  to  be  inclined  to  peace  and  quietnesse  and 
doubt  not  will  remaine  loyall.  The  most  troubles  wee 
meet  withall  is  occasioned  by  the  remouvall  off  the  Ke- 
cords  off  this  part  off  the  gouvernment  to  Boston  for 
the  want  off  which  severall  psons  have  made  their  com- 
plaints to  us  desiring  our  endeavours  that  the  same  may 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  251 

be  returned  to  this  office,  wee  therefore  desire  that  your 
Excellency  for  the  more  quieting  off  the  minds  off  our 
people  will  take  such  measures  that  the  said  Records 
with  the  first  opportunity  may  be  remitted  to  this  place 
wee  are  hourly  in  great  hope  to  hear  better  news  off 
y  Excellency  and  oft'  your  good  health,  which  will  be 
most  acceptable  to  us,  who  are  as  in  duty  bound  your 
Excellency's  most  humble  Servants 

Signed      Fr.  Nicholson 

Fred.  Phillips. 

Steph.  Van  Cortlandt. 

Nich.  Bayard. 

The  Leftenant  gouverneur  &  Councell  did  thitick  it 
alsoo  to  be  their  duty  to  write  and  send  the  following 
letter  to  the  gentlemen  att  Boston,  viz* 

To  Simon  Broadstreet  &  Wayt  Winthrop  Esq*"^  and 
others  att  Boston, 

New  Yorcke,  1689,  pm°  May 

Gentlemen, 

It  was  an  extraordinary  surprizall  to  us 
to  hear  off  the  confiisions  the  Inhabitants  att  Boston 
have  occasioned  by  taking  that  part  off  the  gouverne- 
ment  to  themselves,  and  that  they  have  seized  upon  the 
person  off  his  Excellency  and  severall  off  the  offi.cers. 
Wee  cannot  imagine  that  any  such  actions  can  proceed 
from  any  person  of  quality  amongst  them  but  reather 
promoted  by  the  rable.  And  that  for  the  safety  off  his 
Excellency's  person  those  measures  have  been  taken, 
but  hope  and  doubt  not  before  this  time  the  furie  off 
said  psons  may  be  allaid,  and  that  his  Excellency  and 
the  rest  off  the  officers  may  be  restored  to  their  former 
stations,  or  at  least  have  liberty  to  come  heither,  for  this 
part  of  the  gouvernement  Avee  find  the  people  in  general! 
inclined  to  peace  and  quiitnesse  and  doubt  not  but  will 
remaine  in  their  duties.  Wee  doe  not  question  but  you 
will  send  us  a  speedy  answer,  the  matter  being  oft'  so 
great  a  consequence.     Tending  to  the  peace  and  quiet- 


252  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

nesse  off  us  all  which  if  you  doe  wee  remaine  Y""  frinds 

&  servants  Fr.  Nicholson 

Fred.  Philips 
Steph.  Van  Cortlandt 
Nicholas  Bayard 

Neiv  Yorcke,  1689.     Mciy  the  ^'^ 
Having  heard  off  the  troubles  and  disturbances  in  Suf- 
folk County  on  Long  Island,  The  Gouvernor  and  Coun- 
cell  did  thinck  itt  necessary  to  write  and  send  the  follow- 
ing letter  to  Major  Howell  att  Southampton. 

New  Yorcke,  1689.     May  y"  4th. 

s^ 

Being  informed  that  some  disturbances  have  lately 
hapened  in  your  Pari . . .  which  hope  is  put  to  an  end 
ere  this  by  your  prudent  management,  and  for  the  pre- 
vention off  the  like  in  these  parts.  Wee  use  all  our 
endeavours  to  keej)  the  people  in  peace  and  quietnesse 
and  are  daily  bussie  to  fortify  the  fortt  and  Citty  that 
wee  may  bee  in  a  fitt  posture  to  resist  any  forraign  en- 
nemy.  And  that  we  may  be  the  more  able  to  doe  the 
same  wee  have  desired  the  civill  and  military  officers  in 
the  counties  neare  to  us  to  be  aiding  and  assisting  in  soe 
good  a  design  who  have  all  promised  upon  notice  given 
to  be  assistant  therein  that  soe  wee  may  jointly  with 
heart  and  hand  reprices  a  comon  ennemy.  Wee  have 
to  that  effect  sent  a  letter  to  Coll,  Yongs  with  a  desire 
that  he  would  speedly  come  to  advice  and  consult  with 
us  whatt  is  proper  to  be  done  for  the  safety  and  welfare 
off  the  gouvernement.  This  letter  was  intended  to  be 
sent  before  now  but,  hearing  off  one  Stephen  Bayley  to 
be  in  towne,  come  expresse  to  take  notice  and  inspection 
over  our  actions  and  proceedings  here.  Wee  sent  for 
him  who  told  us  that  it  was  all  your  desires  that  this 
towne  and  fortt  might  be  well  fortifyed,  and  if  wee  de- 
sired assistance  off  men,  that  the  County  of  Suffolk 
would  help  us  with  them  if  occasion.  Wee  ware  also 
informed  that  there  are  some  great  guns  in  your  parts. 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  253 

which  might  easily  be  had,  wee  therefore  desire  you  to 
acquaint  us  what  quantity  you  have  &c.  on  what  terms 
you  would  lett  us  have  the  same  for  fortifying  this  towne, 
and  if  on  reasonable  terms  wee  will  endeavour  to  agree 
with  you  for  the  same.  If  two  off  the  Justices  and  two  off 
the  cheeffe  military  officers  off  your  parts  come  heather 
speedily  to  informe  us  off  what  condition  you  are  in  and 
to  see  in  whatt  posture  we  are.  In  order  to  oppose  the 
French  or  any  other  forraigne  ennemy  it  will  be  very 
acceptable  to  your  loving  friends,  signed 

Fr.  Nicholson 
Fred.  Phillips 
Steph.  Van  Cortlandt 
Nich.  Bayard. 

Neio  Yorche,  1689,  if  8"^  Matj 
The  Gouvemor  &  Councell  thought  itt  very  necessarj^ 
to  write  the  following  letter  to  Major  Howel  att  South 
Hampton  to  give  them  an  Account  off  the  affaires  att 
Boston  and  alsoo  att  Albany  to  give  them  an  Ace'  the 
story  off  the  Indians  and  French  is  not  true,  but  all  well 
there. 

New  Yorcke,  8  May  1689. 

S". 

Since  our  last  to  you  off  the  fourth  instant  by  Stephen 
Bayly  offers  here  little  off  moment  onely  that  the  revenue 
of  the  gouvernement  is  ordered  to  be  applied  towards 
the  fortityinge  off  this  Citty  against  anj^  attack  or  inva- 
sion that  might  be  attempted  by  any  forraign  ennem}-. 
And  this  very  morning  began  the  inhabitants  to  worke 
upon  the  said  fortifications  by  whole  companies,  from 
Albany  wee  ware  alarmed  by  the  reports  off"  some 
aproching  danger  off  the  Indians  and  French  of  Canada. 
But  by  the  last  vessel  which  arrived  here  on  Sunday 
last  wee  have  certaine  intelligence  by  some  off  the  chieff 
traders'  and  magistrates  there,  that  nothing  off  such 
danger  was  feared  by  them,  since  the  said  re[)orts  proved 
to  them  altogether  false,  and  our  Indians  dajly  coming 


254  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

in  with  Beavers,  promising  this  summer  a  good  trade. 
The  Post  John  Perry  came  here  on  Monday  nigt  from 
Boston  with  several!  letters,  by  which  wee  understand, 
that  partt  of  the  gouvernment  to  be  in  a  great  confusion 
occasioned  by  their  late  rash  proceedings,  severall  off 
the  persons  of  quality  begin  to  looke  backe  and  attribute 
now  all  to  the  rable.  That  theire  ships  and  vessells  al- 
ready loaden  dare  nott  departt  because  none  can  obtaine 
any  clearings  and  that  some  doe  intend  very  speedily 
heither  only  to  take  out  their  said  clearings.  All  the 
Justices  and  cheeff  military  officers  of  the  counties  ad- 
jacent have  been  advised  in  this  conjuncture  off  time 
what  may  produce  most  to  the  comon  safety  and  have 
unanimously  promised  upon  the  first  allarm  that  shall  be 
given  them,  to  come  and  assist  the  citty  and  fort  with 
all  their  forces.  These  are  now  further  to  desire  that 
you  will  be  pleased  to  conveane  the  cheefFe  off  the  civill 
and  military  officers  and  communicate  the  premises  and 
off  our  desires  that  they  will  in  like  manner  upon  the 
first  allarm  given  afford  this  city  and  fortt  all  the  assistr 
ance  imaginable  by  sending  down  their  forces,  with  all 
possible  speed.  And  that  due  advertisement  may  be 
given  us  off  their  willingnesse  either  by  an  answer  from 
yrselfe  or  by  sending  some  person  to  us.  Soe  not  doubt- 
ing off  your  compliance  wee  remaine  S^. 
Y"".  frinds  and  Servants 

Fr.  Nicholson 
Fred.  Philips 
Steph.  Van  Cortlandt 
Nich.  Bayard. 

New  Yorcke,  1689.  May  the  9' 
Major  Thomas  Willett  and  Cap*  John  Jackson  ap- 
peared and  acquainted  the  gouvernor  and  Councell  that 
the  men  in  Queens  County  that  have  been  with  Coll. 
Thomas  Dongan  in  the  late  expedition  at  Albany  are  all 
in  armes  and  the  whole  county  in  an  uproar,  desiring  that 
they  might  be  paid  money  being  raised  for  that  purpose, 
&c.  After  mature  deliberation  for  quieting  the  minds  off 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  255 

the  people  and  securing  and  keeping  tlie  peace  off  the 
gouvernement  it  is  ordered  that  an  order  be  given  to  Mi-. 
Matthew  Plowman  to  pay  unto  Capt.  Jackson  aforesaid 
the  sume  of  one  hundred  and  sixteen  pounds  thirteene 
shillings,  being  the  arrears  due  to  the  men  that  ware 
prest  out  off  said  County.  But  hearing  that  said 
County  had  paid  unto  the  Collector  aforesaid  But  iburty 
two  ])ounds  tenn  shillings  and  three  pence  on  account  of 
their  Taxt  it  is  further  ordered  Thatt  an  order  shall  be 
sent  to  the  Justices  of  said  County  to  call  the  severall 
Collectors  before  them  off  said  County,  and  to  give  them 
an  order  to  pay  unto  Capt.  John  Jackson  aforesaid  the 
sume  of  seaventy  foure  pounds  two  shillings  six  pence 
halfe  penny  which  with  the  fourty  two  pounds  tenn 
shillings  and  three  pence  aforesaid  compleats  the  whole 
sume  oft'  one  hundred  sixteen  pounds  thirteen  shillings 
halfe  penny. 

Then  this  followino-  order  was  o-iven 

Whereas  it  hath  been  thought  convenient  by  the  Lef- 
tenant  Gouvernor  and  Councill  that  M''  Matthew  Plo>v- 
man  should  pay  unto  Capt.  John  Jackson  the  sume  of 
one  hundred  sixteen  pounds  thirteen  shillings  and  halfe 
a  penny,  to  pay  the  arrearages  of  what  is  due  to  the  sol- 
diers that  ware  under  his  comand  in  the  late  expedition 
att  Albany.  But  finding  that  Queens  County  hath 
brought  in  onely  the  sume  of  fourty  two  pounds  ten 
shillings  and  tenn  pence,  These  are  therefore  to  require 
you  to  call  before  }'ou  the  severall  Collectors  off  3'our 
County,  and  to  order  them  to  pay  or  cause  to  be  paid 
unto  the  said  Capt.  John  Jackson  the  sume  off  seaventy 
foure  pounds,  two  shillings  and  six  pence  halfe  a  penny 
in  order  to  pay  all  his  soldiers  aforesaid  for  which  this 
order  and  his  receipt  shall  be  your  discharge. 

Dated  att  New  Yorcke  this  9'^  day  off  May  1689. 
Signed 

Fr.  Nicholson 
Fred.  Phillips 
Steph.  Van  Cortlandt 
Nich.  Bayard. 


256  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

New  Yorche,  May  y'  12'^  1689. 
This  morning  the  Leften^  Gouvernor  received  a  letter 
from  the  Mayor  att  Albany,  That  the  Indians  had  gott 
some  jealousies  in  their  heads  which  if  not  prevented 
might  cause  greatt  mischieff,  it  is  therefore  thought  fitt 
to  send  them  the  folloAving  letter,  viz' 

New  Yorcke,  12  May,  1689. 

Gentlemen, 

This  morning  came  to  our  hands  by  these 
bearers  a  letter  from  the  Mayor  att  Albany  acquainting 
us  off  the  affaires  off  the  Inhabitants  off  thatt  County  in 
regard  off  the  Indians,  occasioned  by  the  jealousies 
raised  amongst  them  that  Gouvernor  Andros  last  win- 
ter att  the  Eastward  had  agreed  with  those  off  Canada 
to  destroy  the  five  cantons  nations.  Wee  have  cause  to 
beleeve  that  those  jealousies  are  come  over  to  them  by 
some  ill  affected  persons  from  New  England,  since  wee 
about  three  months  past  had  the  news  here  from  Boston 
that  severall  libells  ware  disperst  there  to  the  same  ef- 
fect, and  although  the  same  is  sufficiently  contradicted 
and  is  proved  to  be  a  mere  falsehood,  yett  since  itt  is  so 
printed  in  the  mindes  off  those  heathens  it  will  be  in 
vaine  to  be  overpressing  with  them  to  d  is  wade  them 
thereoff,  wee  are  off  the  same  opinion  with  your  selfe  that 
it  would  be  most  distructive  to  this  gouvernment  that 
by  occasion  off  said  jealousies  the  said  five  nations 
should  joine  with  Canicla,  you  have  therefore  done  very 
well  that  you  have  already  sent  two  persons  to  the 
Maquaas  land  to  endeavor  by  all  possible  meanes  to  re- 
move any  such  jealousies  and  doe  judge  it  further  most 
safe  that  you  proceed  in  like  manner  by  sending  alsoo 
to  the  rest  off  the  nations  as  you  conveniently  can,  and 
to  acquaint  them  either  by  y'  selves  or  by  such  persons 
as  you  shall  thinck  fitt  and  know  to  be  most  acceptable 
to  the  Indians. 

Imprimus^  that  wee  have  news  from  beyond  the 
Zeas  that  the  English  and  the  Dutch  nations  are 
joined  together  cheefily  to  curb  the  pride  of  France, 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLEE.  257 

and  that  wee  clayly  expect  orders  to  be  in  warr  with 
them. 

Secondly^  That  from  Boston  wee  had  about  three 
months  agoe  intelligence  that  Sr,  Edmond  Andros  had 
joined  with  the  French,  But  that  it  was  since  contra- 
dicted, That  he  was  now  seized  on  att  Boston,  But  thatt, 
wee  could  not  hear  any  such  thing  was  laid  to  his  charge 
and  thereby  concluded  to  be  a  falsehood. 

Thirdly^  That  they  might  be  assured  off  the  entire 
and  old  friendship  off  the  Inhabitants  off  this  gouvern- 
ment  Thatt  wee  are  now  fortifying  off  New  Yorcke, 
although  wee  doe  not  feare  the  French,  only  to  be  upon 
our  guard,  and  to  be  ready  when  orders  comes  from  be- 
yond Zea  which  we  expect  will  be  to  figt  the  French  as 
our  and  their  ennemy  to  bring  them  low. 

Fourthly^  That  the  persons  here  made  a  stop  to  their 
late  victories  against  Canida  are  laid  aside  and  that 
they  need  nott  to  suffer  any  more  abuses  from  those  off 
Canida.  That  the  five  nations  therefore  must  stick  to- 
gether and  not  suffer  any  of  them  to  goe  to  Canida  for 
to  be  deluded,  poisoned  or  betrayed  nor  to  suffer  any 
French  to  live  amongst  them. 

Fifftly^  That  if  they  shall  see  cause  att  their  going  in 
warr  against  any  off  their  ennemies,  to  leave  their  old 
wives  and  childi'en  amonghst  the  Christians  near  Albany, 
That  care  will  be  taken  for  their  maintenance  and  pro- 
tection. 

Sixtly^  To  remove  all  jealousies  which  the  French  or 
others  might  have  raised  against  the  gouvernra*  and  to 
assure  them  of  our  fiiendship,  you  are  to  present  to  each 
of  the  five  nations  one  barrell  of  powder  to  be  iraployed 
if  need  be  against  our  and  their  ennemy. 

Gentlemen  this  is  at  presentt  what  wee  can  thinck 
may  bee  convenient  to  bee  offered,  but  since  the  tempers, 
and  the  manners  of  the  Indians  are  best  knowne  to  your 
selves,  We  leave  to  your  menagement  the  wordings  off 
the  proposalls  and  the  adding  off'  what  }'ou  will  find  to 
be  more  needfull  tending  for  the  comon  satety  of  your 
county  in  particular  as  well  as  tiie  gouvernment  in 
17 


258  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

generall.  But  as  for  to  suffer  any  to  goe  and  trade  in 
the  country  wee  thinck  it  not  safe.  And  by  all  meanes 
you  most  take  prudent  care  that  noe  cause  of  offence  be 
given  frora  our  side.  And  although  any  harme  should 
be  done  by  any  Indian  (which  God  forbid)  That  you  be 
onely  in  the  defensive  part  for  to  prevent  an  open  warr. 
But  that  you  rather  endeavour  to  quell  any  such  offences 
as  criminalls  and  offenders  against  any  knowne  law  of  the 
gouverneinent.  In  the  meantime  wee  recomand  you  to 
be  watch  full  with  courage  and  to  diswade  the  people 
from  being  allarmed  att  every  idle  Indian  story.  En- 
deavour cheefly  to  preserve  peace  and  unity  amongst 
yourselves  which  is  alsoo  our  cheevest  studie  here,  wait- 
ing with  2^atience  daily  to  receive  orders  from  England. 
In  hopes  whereoff  wee  remaine 
Gentlemen 

y  frinds  and  Servants 

Fr.  Nicholson 

Fred.  Philips 

Steph.  Van  Cortlandt. 

Nich.  Bayard. 
This  letter  was  comunicated  to  the  Mayor  Aldermen 
Comon  Councell  militarie  officers  and    the  gentlemen 
from  Suffolk  on  Long  Island,  and  approved  off  by  them 
all  without  any  contradiction. 

Fort  James  the  13*'^  day  of  May,  1689. 

The  Auditor  Stephanus  Van  Cortlandt  complaining 
that  the  Collector  M'"  Matthew  Plowman  is  much  back- 
ward in  making  up  his  acc*%  and  by  his  computa- 
tion much  indebted,  and  alsoo  that  the  said  Collector 
refuses  to  pay  a  Bill  drawne  upon  him  by  the  Leftenant 
Gouvernor  to  pay  unto  M""  Bristoll  thirty  pounds. 

Its  ordered  that  M""  Plowman  be  sent  for,  who  coming 
said  he  had  noe  money  in  Cash 

Then  it  was  further  ordered  that  the  Collector  M 
Plowman  bring  in  the  Secretaries  office  all  his  boockes,  and 
papers  relating  to  his  Majesties  revenue  both  off  receipts 
and  disbursements   tog-ether  with  his   Commission  and 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  259 

Instructions  and  to  remaine  and  stay  till  he  hath  given 
an  exact  account  thereoff,  and  further  order  from  this 
Board. 

Neiv  Yorche  15  May  1689. 

The  Leften*  Gouvernor  and  Councell  being  mett  to- 
gether did  thinck  it  very  necessary  that  an  a*""-  ought  to 
be  given  to  the  piincipall  secretar}'-  off  State  and  the 
Secretary  off  plata9ons,  off  the  state  and  condi- 
tion off  this  gouvernment,  whereupon  the  followhig 
letter  was  sent  by  John  Corbett  master  off  the  ship 
Beaver  as  p""  receit. 

May  it  please  y''  Honor. 

Wee  have  received  from  severall  parts  most  various 
raports  concerning  the  p-sent  state  off"  affaires  in  Europe 
and  in  particular  off  the  unparaleld  changes  in  England, 
yett  to  this  very  day  altogether  distitute  off  any  certain- 
ty which  wee  hope  to  receive  ere  long.  In  the  meane- 
while  wee  have  thougt  it  our  duty  by  this  opportunity 
for  to  give  your  honour  some  ace*  off  the  troublesome 
state  and  condition  off  this  Province  and  Gouvernm\ 

Your  Hono''  will  find  by  the  inclosed  printed  sum- 
mons and  declaration  upon  what  pretence  some  off  the 
Inhabitants  marchants  and  gentry  off  Boston  and  places 
adjacent  have  throwne  downe  all  manner  of  gouvern- 
ment there  and  set  up  for  themselves.  They  have  alsoo 
seized  the  gouvernor  S""  Edmond  Andros  with  several 
off  his  Councell  officers  and  gentlemen  which  still  are 
kept  in  close  custodie  and  prison,  disbanded  the  standard 
melitia  and  in  fine  (as  it  is  reported)  suffer  the  rabble  to 
comit  severall  insolences. 

The  Collonies  off  Rhoad  Island  and  Connecticott 
have  followed  their  steps  and  as  it  is  reported,  have 
chosen  for  them  selves  alsoo  new  Gouvernours  in  soe 
much  that  this  part  off  the  dominion  was  onely  inclined 
to  rest  at  peace,  and  quiet  till  orders  doe  arrive  and 
would  undoubtedly  soe  continued  unlesse  the  seed  off 
sedition  had  been  blazed  from  thence  to  some  outward 
skirts  off  this  province. 

And  at  first  in  Suffolck  County  being  the  east  end 


260  DOCUMENTS    RELATING    TO    THE 

off  Long  Island  all  majestrates  and  military  officers 
ware  put  out  by  the  people  and  others  chosen  by  them. 
The  same  patterne  was  alsoo  followed  by  Queens-County 
and  County  of  Westchester. 

This  would  not  satisfie  them,  but  upon  hopes  to  find 
the  Inhabitants  off  this  citty  divided  and  on  a  faire 
pretence  to  be  exceedingly  concerned  and  zealous  for  the 
safety  off  the  Citty  and  fortt  against  any  attack  or 
invasion  off  the  French,  gi-eatt  part  off  their  melitie 
have  taken  up  armes  and  are  now  come  at  or  neare 
Jamaico  about  fourteen  miFes  from  this  place,  in  order 
if  they  could  to  make  themselves  master  off  this  Citty 
and  fortt  to  plunder  as  it  is  feared  this  Citty  or  at  least 
such  members  as  they  would  see  cause  to  expose  to  y® 
rabble  ;  and  to  that  end  severall  of  them  with  the  assist- 
ance off  some  ill  affected  and  restlesse  spiritts  amongst 
us,  used  all  imaginable  meanes  to  stirr  up  the  Inhabitants 
off  this  Citty  to  sedition  and  rebellion,  but  God  be 
thanked  who  hath  blessed  our  endeavours  that  wee  have 
hetherto  prevented  their  dangerous  designs,  but  know 
not  how  long  wee  shall  be  able  to  resist  their  further 
attempts. 

But  now  wee  ware  anew  allarmed  fi'om  Albany  that 
some  Indians  in  that  County  ware  jealous  off  this 
gouvernment  and  that  some  Insolencies  had  been  comit- 
ted  by  them  occasioned  as  wee  suppose  by  meanes  off 
some  libells  and  falsehoods  lately  come  from  Boston 
possessing  the  Indians  with  feare  that  Sir  Edmond  had 
joined  with  the  French  off  Canida  to  cutt  them  off. 

Its  most  certaine  that  the  Gouvernor  off  Canida  will 
not  slip  this  opportunity  to  inflame  those  jealousies  and 
all  faire  and  plaiesable  meanes  endeavour  to  unite  our 
Indians  to  himselfe  which  would  tend  to  the  utter  ruine 
off  all  the  English  settlem*^  on  this  Continent. 

Wherefore  wee  shall  not  be  wanting  to  use  our  ut- 
most endeavors  for  the  removing  off  said  jealousies  and 
the  securing  off  our  five  Cantons  and  warlike  Indian 
nations  to  our  selves.  In  the  midst  off  all  the  troubles 
within  our  selves  wee  ware  dajly  allarmed  with  rumors 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  261 

off  warr  ^^dth  France,  which  occasioned  a  resolve  to  be 
made  for  new  fortifying  oflF  this  Citty  since  all  the 
former  (for  what  reason  wee  know  not)  are  suffered  to 
fail  to  ruine,  if  not  for  some  part  demolished,  but  how 
to  raise  money  for  the  accomplishing  of  any  such  forti- 
fications noe  way  could  be  found  to  resolve  us  there  in  as 
our  condition  is  now. 

Att  this  very  conjuncture  off  time  began  severall  off 
the  inarchants  to  dispute  the  paying  off  any  costumes 
and  other  duties  as  illegally  established  and  seeing  thatt 
it  was  not  possible  to  put  a  stop  to  their  currant  or  to 
uphold  the  revenue  on  the  same  foot  wee  conveaned  all 
the  civell  and  military  officers  off  this  Citty  and  with 
their  consent  and  advise  did  order  that  the  said  revenue 
arrizing  by  the  customs,  excise  and  weigh  being  from 
this  first  day  off  this  instant  month  off  May  should  be 
applyed  towards  the  paying  and  defraying  off  the 
charges  off  said  fortifications  by  which  meanes  wee  hope 
in  some  manner  to  preserve  the  said  revenue. 

The  Collector  Matthew  Plowman  has  been  ever  since 
the  five  and  twentieth  day  off  March  last  dayly  called 
upon  to  give  in  his  Ace*  off  the  revenue  till  said  date 
according  to  order,  and  since  he  hath  hetherto  delayed 
to  perforrae  said  order  as  also  for  the  more  security  wee 
thought  it  most  safe  to  call  out  off  his  hands  and  secure 
in  the  fortt  what  little  money  off  the  revenue  and  the 
contry  tax  was  in  his  hands,  which  is  sealed  up  by  him 
selfe  in  a  chest. 

The  Auditor  is  now  busie  in  auditing  said  accounts 
but  our  time  being  wholy  taken  up  in  keeping  all  things 
in  order  must  be  sent  by  the  next  opportunity. 

In  all  these  Revolutions  and  troubles  wee  have  been 
deprived  off  all  advice  and  assistance  off  any  other  off 
the  members  off  the  Councell  soe  thatt  all  the  burthen 
in  this  present  conjuncture  has  onely  laine  on  those  few 
members  residing  in  New  Yorcke. 

Wee  sent  a  letter  to  Gouvernor  Andros  since  his 
confinement   as    alsoo  one  to  Simon   Broadstreet  and 


262  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

Waj't  Wintlirop  Esq"  att  Boston  but  have  received  noe 
answer. 

This  part  of  the  Gouvernment  by  occasion  of  said 
revolutions  deprived  from  its  free  course  off  justice  since 
the  judges  appointed  for  this  circuit  are  alsoo  in  custodie 
att  Boston  by  which  meanes  many  here  suffer  exceed- 
ingly both  in  person  and  estate. 

It  would  now  alsoo  bee  very  needful  for  to  lay  open 
how  fatall  it  hath  been  for  this  Citty  and  province  off 
New  Yorcke  soe  to  bee  annexed  to  that  off  Boston  which 
if  it  had  long  continued  would  occasioned  the  totall 
mine  off  the  inhabitants  oft'  said  province. 

But  since  wee  conject  that  the  present  conjuncture 
off  affaires  in  generall  will  not  admit  off  any  emediat 
redres  wee  shall  therefore  not  trouble  yo""  Honor  att 
|)resent  therewith  onely  hoping  and  most  humbly  pray- 
ing that  the  inhabitants  off  this  province  may  receive 
that  comon  justice  thatt  nothing  be  determined  to  their 
disadvantage  before  the  severall  greevances  oft'  this 
province  be  heard,  and  that  your  honor  will  be  pleased 
to  make  such  their  complaints  knowne  to  such  as  may 
be  able  to  give  releeffe  therem  till  wee  can  receive  certaine 
intelligences  and  needfull  orders  w"*"  wee  dayly  expect 
and  shall  in  the  interim  remaine,  May  it  please  your 
Honor 

Your  hon"^"  humble  Servants 
The  Lef  Gou"  and  Councell  now  residing  in  New  Yorcke. 

Fr.  Nicholson 
Fred.  Philips 
Steph.  Van  Cortlandt, 
Nich.  Bayard. 

Two  letters  off  this  tenure  were  sent,  viz* : — One,  to 
the  Bight  Honorable  the  Princij^all  Secretary  oft'  State 
att  Whitehall,  and  one  to  the  honorab.  The  Secretary  off 
Plantations  att  his  ofiice  in  London. 

NeiD  Yorcke,  1689,  May  the  18th 
The  rumors   with    France    continuing   The    Leften* 
Gouverno'"  and  Councell  did  thinck  it  necessary  to  send 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  263 

the  following  letter  to  our  neighbours  the  justices  off  the 
peace  and  militarie  officers  in  fearfield  County  the  same 
in  New  haven  Count}-  and  the  same  in  Hartford  County. 
Gentlemen, 

Having  this  opportunity  wee  thinck  it  proper  to 
acquaint  you  thatt  wee  have  received  severall  rumors 
off  warr  with  France  for  which  reasons  wee  are  now 
fortifying  this  Citty,  and  shall  desire  that  if  any  eiineui}' 
should  approch  upon  the  first  notice  wee  shall  give  you 
thereoff  that  you  will  not  faile  to  assist  us  with  some 
off  your  melitie,  That  soe  wee  may  be  able  to  repulls 
any  invaders  soe  not  doubting  your  complyance  there 
in  itt  being  for  the  comon  safety  off  us  all,  wee  re- 
maine 

y  loveing  frinds 

Fr.  Nicholson 

Fred.  Phillips 

Steph.  Van  Cortlandt, 

Nich.  Bayard. 

New  YorcJce  1689,  May  the  18th. 
Present  the  Lefteii'^  Gouvern''  and  Councell,  M'' 
Georo'e  Wodderborne  beiiio;  come  from  Boston  delivered 
to  the  lieuten^  Gouvern''  and  Councel  the  following 
Instructions  from  his  Excellency  S""  Edmond  Andross 
Capt.  Generall  and  Gouverno""  in  cheeff  Given  him  ver- 
bally by  his  Excellency  att  Boston  being  under  confine- 
ment in  the  fort  there,  viz\ 

Verball  Instructions  Given  by  his  Excellency  S'  Ed- 
mond An  dros  Capt.  Generall  and  Cheeff  Gouvernor 
over  his   majesties  Territories  and   Dominion  oft" 
New  England. 
To  George  Wodderborne  to  communicate  these  fol- 
lowing articles  to  Francis  Nicholson  Lieuten*  Gouvernor 
off  New  Yorcke. 

Fii'st.  That  you  call  the  Councell  and  intimate  to 
them  the  unjust  proceedings  oft'  the  people  in  Boston  by 
keeping  his  Excellency  prizoner  and  the  other  gentle- 


264  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

men  upon  frivolous  pretences  off  their  owne  without  any 
shadow  off  reason. 

Secondly.  His  Excellency  desires  that  you  and  the 
Councell  will  send  Coll.  Hamilt  n  and  Coll.  Smith  to 
Boston  with  comission  to  demand  his  Excellency  and  the 
other  gentlemen  to  be  att  liberty  that  they  may  come 
amonojst  you. 

Tliirdly.  That  you  take  speciall  care  to  keep  Albany 
in  quiett  and  endeavour  not  to  lett  the  Indians  know 
that  his  Excellency  is  prisoner. 

Fourthly.  To  send  a  sloope  wel  maned  to  Pemaquid 
with  some  provisions  for  Major  Brockhols,  and  order  the 
master  to  wait  his  motion  for  bringing  off  the  soldiers 
if  Brockhols  finds  itt  convenient 

This  is  the  true  orders  delivered  by  his  Excellency 
to  mee  seigned 

George  Wedderborne. 

The  Leften*  Gouvernor  and  Councell  takeing  the 
same  into  consideration  doe  think  it  very  necessary  thatt 
George  Wedderborne  should  declare  upon  oath  the 
truth  off  the  above  Instrnctions. 

The  Mayor  Stephanus  Van  Cortlandt  was  ordered 
to  administer  the  same  to  him  which  was  accordingly 
done  in  the  presence  off  the  Councell. 

New  Yorcke,  1689,  May  the  18th 
Then  appeared  the  within  mentioned  George  Wed- 
derborne and  declared  upon  oath  thatt  the  within  foure 
verball  Instructions  ware  ordered  him  by  his  Excellency 
S""  Edmund  Andross,  the  Capt.  Geuerall  and  Gouvernor 
in  Cheef  oft'  New  England  k"  to  deliver  unto  the  Leften- 
ant  Governor  Francis  Nicholson. 

Sworne  in  Councell  the  day  and  yeare  above  written 
before  mee 

Steph.  Van  Cortlandt,  Mayor. 
The  Lieutenant  Gouvernor  &  Councill  taking  these 
Instructions  into  their  deliberations  ordered  that  in  the 
meantime  the  Kings  Barke  should  be  repaired  if  occasion 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  265 

should  bee  to  use  her,  and  that  the  Mayor  should  see 
the  same  done. 

That  the  following  letter  should  be  sent  to  Coll.  Hamil- 
ton and  Coll.  Smith  to  advise  with  them  concerning  this 
matter  and  the  Leflen'  and  Councell  will  take  the  pmises 
into  their  further  consideration. 

The  follo-sving  letter  was  sent  to  Coll.  Hamilton  and 
to  Coll.  Smith. 

New  Yorcke,  1689.     May  the  18*^ 
S^ 

The  Lieu*  Gouverno'"  and  Councell  have  comanded 
mee  to  send  these  few  lines  unto  you  desireing  (if  your 
occasion  will  permit  it)  That  you  would  be  pleased  to 
come  here  att  New  Yorcke  as  soone  as  possible  may  bee, 
There  being  for  the  publicq  good  off  the  Gouvernment  oc- 
casion off  a  gentlemans  going  on  a  jornay  That  will  take 
up  two  or  three  weekes  time,  The  which  if  you  be  pleased 
to  undertake  would  be  a  singular  favor  to  the  gouvernm*, 
&  especially  to  the  Gouvernor  and  Councill  soe  remaine- 
frind  and  servant. 
5y  order  of  the  Gouvern''  &  Councell 

Steph.  Van  Cortlandt 


I 


New  Yorcke,  1689.     May  the  22''' 
Coll.  Hamilton  and  Coll.    Smith  being  sent  for  as 
above  came  to  New  Yorcke  and  declared  their  readinesse 
to  serve  the  king  and  country  and  appeared  before  the 
Gouvernor  and  Councell. 

Coll,  Hamilton  first  speaking  said  That  he  is  always 
ready  to  serve  S*"  Edmond  Andros  and  the  Country,  but 
finds  him  selfe  obliged  by  a  Comission  oft*  S''  Edmond 
Andros  to  be  judge  off"  the  inferior  Courts  off  Comon 
Pleas  m  East  Yarsay,  which  are  to  be  kept  the  first,  se- 
cond and  third  Wednesday  in  June  and  alsoo  that  the 
people  there  is  still  in  quiett  and  feares  that  his  absence 
from  those  Courts  might  throw  the  people  in  mutiu}^  or 
rebellion  and  since  he  came  in  New  Yorcke  finding  the 
people  all  in  an  uprore  and  disaffected  to  his  Excellency 
by  reason  off  the  rumors  they  had  from  people  coming 


266  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

from  Boston  did  thinck  it  not  advisable  in  these  danger- 
ous times  to  act  any  further  for  fear  it  would  bring  the 
place  in  actual  rebellion. 

Col.  Smith  alsoo  shewed  and  declared  his  willingnesse 
to  serve  his  Excellency  S'  Edmond  Andros,  The  Leften* 
Gouvernor  having  spoken  to  him  in  that  behalfe  Butt 
hee  living  att  Zeatalkett  the  middle  off  Long  Island  ware 
the  people  already  shoocke  oft'  this  gouvernm*  and 
taking  him  to  be  a  papist  or  a  frind  off  them  fears  if  hee 
should  goe  to  Boston  that  the  people  in  his  towne  would 
rise  and  plunder  his  house,  if  not  offer  violence  to  his 
family,  and  for  the  rest  is  off  the  same  opinion  as  Coll. 
Hamilton. 

The  Leften*  Governor  and  Councell  taking  the  matter 
in  mature  deliberation  seeing  the  uprores  in  all  parts  off 
the  Gouvernm*.  The  people  incensed  against  his 
Eccellency  by  the  libells  and  other  reports  from  Boston 
and  alsoo  having  received  a  letter  from  Simon  Broad 
Street  and  Wayt  Wintrop,  Esq,  att  Boston  wherein 
they  refuse  to  sett  his  Excellency  att  liberty.  And  alsoo 
having  heard  that  Major  Brockhols,  Major  Mackgregorie 
and  George  Lockard  are  taken  att  Pemaquid.  The 
Lieuten*  Gouverno''  and  Councell  thinck  it  most  safe  to  for 
bear  acting  in  the  premises  till  they  see  the  minds  off" 
the  people  better  satisfied  and  quieted. 

Neiv  Yorcke  1689,  May  the  24''' 
The  Gouvernor  havinge  received  a  letter  from  the 
Majestrates  att  Albany  acquainting  his  honor  that  the 
affaires  with  the  Indians  is  in  a  pretty  good  state  and 
noe  feare  off  any  trouble  with  them.  But  that  to  the 
contrary  bet^veen  sixty  and  seaventy  young  men  thatt 
ware  two  yeares  agoe  taken  and  plundered  by  the  French 
and  kept  in  prison  by  them  are  gott  together  and 
demand  comission  or  letter  off  martt  to  goe  to  Canida 
and  take  off  the  French  subjects  their  estates  so  much 
as  will  pay  them  for  their  goods  taken  with  all  dam- 
ages, tfec. 

The  Gouvernor  and  Councell  taking  the  same  into 


ADMINISTRATION  OF   LEISLER,  267 

consideration   did  think  it  necessary  to  send  them  the 
following  letter,  viz' 

New  Yorcke,  1689.     May  the  24*'^ 
Gentlemen, 

Wee  have  received  yours  dated  the  21'*  off  this  instant 
by  M"  Robert  Livingston  and  have  communicated  the 
same  to  all  the  magistrates  oiF  this  Citty,  who  are  all  otf 
one  unanimous  opinion  that  it  is  not  safe  for  this  gouvern- 
ment  to  suffer  or  to  give  any  comission  or  letter  off 
mart  to  the  Youngman  that  ware  at  Attowawe,  To  goe 
towards  Canida  or  elsewheare,  Because  wee  dayly  expect 
orders  out  off  England  and  doe  not  know  wether  it  is 
warr  or  peace  between  England  and  France.  But  re- 
commend their  readinesse  if  occasion  should  bee,  and 
therefore  you  must  in  noe  manner  suffer  their  proceed- 
ings. If  att  any  time  you  have  letters  or  messingers 
from  any  part  off  New  England  you  are  to  send  them 
to  us,  to  prevent  the  stirring  off  division  amongst  you 
and  us.  The  further  contents  off  your  letter  will  be  an- 
swered att  the  returne  off  M*"  Robert  Livingston  in  meane- 
time  wee  remaine  Your  friends 

Fr.  Nicholson. 
Fred.  Philips 
Steph.  Van  Cortlandt 
Nich.  Bayard. 

Neiv  Yorcke,  1689.  Mmj  the  27''* 
Major  Jarvis  Baxter  one  off  the  CouncellandComand- 
er  off  the  fortt  att  Albany  arrived  here  this  day  from 
Albany.  And  appeared  before  the  Gouvernour  and 
Councell,  acquainting  and  declaring  unto  them  under 
what  circumstances  those  off"  his  perswasions  are  And 
therefore  for  the  quieting  off'  the  minds  of  the  people  and 
comon  peace  off"  the  Citty  and  Gouvernment,  desired 
off  the  Leftenant  and  Councell  leave  to  withdraw  him 
selfe  toward  New  Yarsay  Philadelphia  and  Maryland 
till  further  orders  from  England. 
Which  was  approved  off 


268  DOCUMENTS  EELATING  TO  THE 

Neiu  Yorcke,  1689.  May  the  ^V 
The  Couricell  being  mett  the  U  Gouvern''  acquainted 
the  board  that  most  part  off  the  Citty's  melitia  where  in 
rebellion,  That  noe  comands,  either  from  him  selfe  or  their 
Coll.  ware  in  any  ways  regarded  nor  obeyed,  That  he 
was  credibly  informed  some  oif  the  officers  ware  the  In- 
stigato"  and  Inflamers  off  it,  and  therefore  desired  the 
Mayor  to  conveane  this  afternoone  att  the  Citty  hall  the 
Court  of  Mayor  Aldermen  Comon  Councell  and  all  the 
military  officers  of  this  Citty  for  to  advise  with  them  off 
this  matter  off  great  moment,  which  accordingly  was 
ordered.  S*^ 

V:  Cortlandt. 

Neiv  Yorckey  Monday  June  the  3'' 
This  morning  the  Gouvernour  and  Councell  being 
mett,  a  message  was  brought  by  Capt.  Lodwick  thatt  an 
expresse  was  come  fi-om  Long  Island  reporting  that 
foure  or  five  ships  ware  seen  in  the  Bay  Severall  mes- 
sengers being  sent  to  find  out  said  expresse  to  appeare 
before  the  Councell,  yett  was  not  to  be  found.  Imme- 
diately thereupon  Caj)t.  Jacob  Laisler  comanding  in  the 
fortt  gave  the  sign  off  an  alarm  by  firing  off  guns  and 
beat  of  drums.  Capt  Lodwicke  in  the  behalfe  off  some 
of  the  other  Captaines  came  and  desired  Coll.  Bayard 
that  all  would  be  pleased  to  give  his  comands  to  the 
respective  Captaines  to  appeare  in  armes  for  without  his 
orders  none  would  appear. 

Coll.  Bayard  made  answer  that  he  thought  it  not  safe 
for  him  to  appear  in  armes  otherwise  then  a  private  sol- 
dier. Since  his  comands  as  well  by  officers  and  soldiers 
had  been  soe  often  disobeyed  and  the  gouvernment  not 
being  in  state  to  support  his  comission  whilest  the  fort 
was  detained  from  the  Leften*  gouvernor  by  force. 

Whereupon  the  Leften'  Gouverno''  and  Councell  gave 
order  to  the  Colonel  1  since  an  allarme  was  made,  and 
not  knowing  otherwise  but  an  ennemy  was  approaching 
and  to  lett  the  people  see  that  we  Avhere  reddy  to  defend 
the  place  to  the  utmost,  and  since  the  Captaines  refused 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  269 

to  appeare  in  arms  without  his  comands.  That  said 
Collonel  should  act  in  this  conjuncture  by  vertue  off  his 
comission  as  Collonell  of  the  Regiment  and  give  suitable 
orders  accordingly. 

Neio  Yorcke,  Teusday  the  4'^^ 

Collonell  Baj'ard  gave  an  ace*  to  the  Councell  in  what 
manner  most  part  of  the  soldiers  of  Capt.  Murville,  Capt. 
de  Peyster,  Capt.  Lodwick  and  Capt.  de  Brujni  on  yester- 
day being  in  armes  att  the  place  off  Parade  before  the 
fortt  had  been  disobedient  to  the  comands  off  their  said 
officers  and  in  a  rebellious  manner  left  their  said  officers, 
went  to  the  fortt  to  side  with  Capt.  Layster  and  com- 
mitted insufferable  insolences. 

ThattM""  Dischington  was  arrived  with  his  sloope  from 
Barbadoes,  was  att  his  landing  not  suffered  to  speake  to 
any  person  being  forced  by  a  tile  off  musqueteers  to  goe 
into  the  fortt,  and  his  gasetts,  &c,  taken  from  him. 

That  Nicolas  Gerrits  arriving  alsoe  from  Barbadoes 
(bringing  the  first  certaine  news  that  the  most  illustrious 
prince  William  off  Orange  and  princess  Mary  ware  pro- 
claimed att  Barbadoes  King  and  queen  of  England,  <fec, 
which  alsoo  was  confirmed  by  a  gasette  off*  their  being 
proclaimed  in  London)  was  served  in  like  manner. 

That  they  having  intelligence  thatt  Phillip  French  a 
marchant  who  lately  arrived  from  England  to  Boston 
would  be  here  this  night  by  land.  A  file  of  musquetteirs 
was  sent  by  the  Capt.  off'  the  fortt  about  a  mile  out  of 
the  towne  to  seize  and  bring  him  into  the  fortt,  which 
accordingly  was  done. 

That  Nicolas  de  la  Plyne  arriving  from  Boston  in  his 
vessel  was  served  in  like  manner,  all  the  letters  he  brought 
demanded,  and  two  letters  directed  to  the  Major  Cort- 
landt  broke  open  and  read  in  the  fort  and  soe  sent  him. 

Coll.  Bayard  made  his  complaint  that  being  about 
some  business  att  the  custome  house  Capt.  Layslers 
came  in,  and  by  filthy  and  scurrilous  expressions  called 
him  over  and  over  You  a  Coll.  off'  a  tirainiicall  power, 
with  severall  other  threatning  words,  that  he  would  see 
him  hanged  &c. 


270  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

The  said  Coll.  Bayard  acquainted  the  Councell  alsoo 
that  by  the  instigation  off  said  Laisler  the  mabble  was 
sett  an  and  so  invetteritt  against  him  because  he  would 
not  take  the  peoples  part  against  the  Leften*  Gouvernour, 
That  by  very  credible  hands  he  was  informed  that  he 
was  in  great  danger  to  be  devoured  and  his  house  pulled 
downe,  &c. 

Thursday,  the  6'^  of  June. 

The  Leften*  Gouvernor  and  Councell  being  mett  itt 
was  the  advice  of  the  Councill  that  it  was  most  safe  for 
the  Leften*  Governour  to  depart  for  England-  by  the  first 
ship,  for  to  give  an  account  of  the  desperate  and  deplor- 
able state  of  the  government,  and  to  pray  for  some  im- 
mediate releese. 

Resolved,  that  the  Court  of  Mayor,  Aldermen  and 
Comon  Councill  be  conveaned  and  to  desire  their  opin- 
ions whether  itt  be  not  advisable  to  send  to  the  severall 
Captaines  off  the  Citty,  or  such  off  them  as  have  en- 
couraged the  rebellion  of  the  people,  and  to  protest  against 
them  for  all  the  losses,  damages,  detriments,  and  brood- 
sheads  that  shall  or  may  arrize  by  occasion  of  s*^  rebel- 
lion and  in  particular,  viz  : 

Imprimis.  For  the  detaineing  off  the  Fort  James 
from  the  L\  Gouvernor. 

Item.  For  their  suffering  the  standing  melitia  to  be 
disbanded. 

Item.  For  the  assaulting  off  the  sheriffe  off  this  citty 
and  county. 

Item.  For  suffering  severall  off  his  now  Majesties 
protest  ant  subjects  to  be  assaulted  being  threatned  and 
grossly  abused  by  themselves  and  their  soldiers. 

Item.  For  enjoyning  the  Constables  without  any 
consent  off  the  civill  gouvernment  to  execute  the  co- 
mands  off  the  militia. 

Item.  For  detaining  the  moneys  belonging  to  the 
gouvernement  and  country  being  locked  up  in  a  chest  in 
the  Lt.  Gouvernors  roome  amounting  to  the  sume  of 
seaven  hundred  seaventy  three  pounds  twelff  shillings. 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  271 

Item.  For  disobeying  the  lawfull  comands  off  the 
civill  magistrates. 

Item.  For  forcing  all  masters  of  vessells  and  travel- 
lers by  a  file  off  musqiieteers  att  their  arrivall  to  be 
brought  before  them,  and  not  before  the  cheeff  majestrates 
as  the  Law  directs. 

Item.  For  seizing  and  opening  of  the  Maj^ors  letters 
and  reading  off  them  ;  and  for  severall  other  insolencies 
and  injuries  committed  ag*  the  comon  peace  and  knowne 
Laws  off  the  gouvernment,  &c. 

The  Court  off  Mayor,  Aldermen  and  Comon  Councell 
was  conveaned  accordingly. 

Neiv  Yorche,  1689.     June  the  W 

The  Leftenant  Gouvernor  &  Councell  being  to  gether, 
M' Plowman  &''  appeareing,  The  L*  Gouvernor  acquainted 
him  off  his  design  to  goe  for  England,  theirfore  recom- 
mending him  to  observe  and  follow  his  comission  and 
Instructions.  And  the  gentlemen  off  the  Councell  are 
alsoo  desired  to  bee  aiding  and  assisting  therein. 

Itt  is  further  resolved  that  the  three  gentlemen  off  the 
Councell  dispose  off  the  Kings  Barcke,  woodboat  and 
pinace,  either  by  sale  or  hire  as  they  shall  see  cause  since 
the  same  ley  upon  decay. 

Upon  the  advice  of  the  Councill  the  6*^  inst,  The  Lef- 
ten*  Gouvernor  declared  to  the  Councell  his  being  re- 
solved to  departt  for  England.  Whereupon  two  letters 
ware  prepared  from  the  Councell  to  give  an  account  off 
the  state  of  the  country,  one  to  the  right  honorable  the 
Secretary  of  state  and  one  to  the  honorable  the  Secretary 
of  Plantations  with  the  Copys  off  the  minutts  off  Coun- 
cell, &c.,  Avhich  was  accordingly  done. 

The  Leftent.  Gouvernour  gave  his  hearty  thancks  to 
the  gentlemen  off  the  Councell  for  the  care  trouble  and 
assistance  in  the  management  off  the  affaires  off  the 
gouvernment  in  those  troublesome  times  and  desired 
their  continuation  therein  after  his  departure  and  in  par- 
ticular to  his  EccelP^  S'"  Edmond  Andros.  And  that  they 
would  not  be  wanting  to  give  by  alt  occasions  suitable 


272  DOCUMENTS    RELATING    TO    THE 

advise  off  whatt  occurs  to  the  Secretary  off  State  and  Sec- 
retary off  Plantations  office,  and  whatt  Letters  be  sent  to 
himself  to  himself,  to  direct  them  to  either  of  their  offices 
and  lastly  that  the  gentlemen  off  the  Councell  will  be 
pleased  to  call  the  Collector  to  an  Ace'  for  all  the  reve- 
nues from  time  to  time  and  to  receive  the  moneys  soe 
collected  by  him ;  for  which  their  receipt  shall  be  unto 
the  said  Collector  a  sufficient  discharge.  The  said  gentle- 
men of  the  Councell  securing  the  said  monnys  till  further 
orders  from  his  Majesty. 

This  is  a  true  copy  off  the  Minutts  off  Councell  con- 
taininge  sixty  seaven  pages. 

Attested  by  mee, 

S.  V:  Cortlandt,  Secry. 
Indorsed:    N.  York,  1689. 

Proceedings  of  the  Councill  from  the  1'*  of  March 
to  y''  IP^  of  June. 
Rec"^  29.  August  168—. 
P  Capt.  Nicholson. 


Proceedings  of  y=   Councill,  Magistrates  and  Offi- 
cers,   &*',    FROM   THE    27   OF  APRILL    TO   THE    6    JUNE. 

Citty  of  New  Yorcke.     Att  a  Generall  Meeting  held  att 
the  Citty  Hall  within  said  Citty  on  Satturday  the 
27'^  day  of  Aprill  M  1689. 
P'sntt : 

His  Hono'  the  Liev"  Governo'" 
S.  V.  Cortlandt,  Esq"  Mayo'"  i 
Frederick  Phillips,  Esq:  v  of  the  Councell. 

Coll?  Nicol.  Bayard,  ) 

John  Lawrence  ^ 
Francis  Rombouts  | 
Wm.  Merritt  i   Aur 

Tho:Crundall         ^Ald'men 

Polus  Richards 
Johafies  Kipp 


{ 


Military  Officers 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  273 

Balthus  Bayard 

AneD.Mill  (.CoSonCounciU 

iheunis  JJekey 

Peter  D.   Lano}^ 
Majo"'  Nich.  D.  Meyer 
Capl*  GM  Munviell 

Abr?'  Dpeyster 

Jacob  Leisler 

John  D.  Browne 

Charles  Lodwick 

His  Hono''  proposeing  to  this  Board  that  they  take 
what  care  they  can  for  y^  safety  of  this  place  in  regard 
of  the  late  news  from  Boston  and  supposed  Invasion 
of  the  French. 

This  Board  thereupon  unanimously  agreeing  that  the 
Citty  be  forthwith  fortifyed. 

It  is  voted  that  Aldrman  Tho  :  Crundall  and  Jo- 
haiies  Kipp  Cap*.^  Abr!:^  Dpeyster  Cap*.!  Jacob  Leisler, 
My  Balth  :  Bayard  and  Mf  Peter  De  Lanoy  view  the 
severall  places  about  the  Citty  and  to  see  where  it  may 
be  most  necessary  towrds  fortifying  the  same  makeing 
their  returne  thereof  on  Munday  next  by  nine  of  the 
clock. 

His  Hono'  proposeing  to  this  Board  whether  it  be 
not  expedient  for  the  more  security  of  the  fortt  since  the 
present  garrison  is  but  a  very  small  number  that  some 
part  of  the  Citty  militia  keep  the  Guard  in  the  fortt 
w"^  was  agreed  on  and  thankfully  accepted  of  by  this 
Board  as  being  a  meanes  which  undoubtedly  would  re- 
move all  the  jealousies  of  the  people,  and  thereupon 
Coll!  Bayard  was  recommended  to  give  suitable  orders 
accordingly. 

Citty  of  New  Yorke.     Att  a  General  meeting  held  att 
the  Citty  Hall  within  said  Citty  on  Munday  the  29"' 
day  of  April  A!  1689. 
Psntt 

His  Hon',  the  Liev".  Governor 
Stephanus  Van  Cortlandt  Esq""  Mayo' 
18 


274 


DOCUMENTS    KELATING    TO   THE 


Frederick  Phillips,  Esq'. 

Coll.  Nichol:  Bayard 
John  Lawrence 
Francis  Romboult 
Wm.  Merritt 
ThorCrundall 
Polus  Richards 
Johanes  Kip 
Balth :  Bayard 
Ant°.  D.  Mills 
Theunis  Dekey 
Peter  D  Lanoy 
Majo'"  Nich.  D.  Meyer 
Cap"  G.  Munviell 

Abr™  Dpeyster 
Jacob  Leisler 
John  T).  Browne 
Charles  Lodwick 


!>-Ald''men 


Comon  Councill 


Military  Officers. 


Ald'man  Tho:  Crundall  &  Johanes  Kipp  Cap*.'  Abr° 
Dpeyster  Cap"  Jacob  Leisler,  Mr  Balth  us  Bayard,  and 
Mr.  Peter  D  Lanoy  makeing  their  returne  according  to 
the  order  last  Court  five  of  them  do  think  it  very  neces- 
sary that  the  fortifications  bee  according  to  the  bounds 
of  the  ancient  fortifications  the  other  person  being  Cap". 
Abr™  Depeyster  doth  think  fitt  that  the  fortification  bee 
according  to  the  later  bounds  layd  out  being  somewhat 
further  His  Hono'  proposeing  that  the  Pevenue  now 
comeing  be  imployed  for  the  Fortifying  of  this  Citty 

w"*"  was  by  this  board  approved  of  and  thankful- 
ly accepted. 

Ordered,  that  Ald'man  John  Lawrence  Wm  Mer- 
ritt, M'  Theunis  Dekey  and  Peter  D  Lanoy  doe  take 
the  number  of  the  Gunns  and  where  most  convenient  to 
be  placed  makeing  their  returne  on  Fryday  morneing  by 
nine  of  y®  Clock. 

Citty  of  New  Yorke.  Att  a  General  meeting  held  att 
the  Citty  Hall  within  said  Citty  on  Wednesday  the 
first  day  of  May  A".  1689. 


ADMINISTRATION    OF   LEISLER. 


275 


Psntt : 

His  Hono''  the  Leiv"  Governo' 
S.  V.  Cortlandt,  Esq^  Mayo' 
Frederick  Phillips,  Esq". 
ColP  Nicol :  Bayard, 

John  Lawrence 
Absent     Francis  Rombouts 

Polus  Pichards 

Wm :  Merritt 

Tho  Crundall 

Johannes  Kipp 

Balthus  Bayard 

Anto.  D.  Mill 

Theunis  Dekey 

Peter  D.  Lanoy 

Ordered,  that  the  former  Order  about  the  Indi- 
ans be  renewed  and  the  sherifFe  his  Dep*^  and  Constables 
to  see  the  same  put  in  execucon. 

It  being  put  to  the  vote  it  is  ordered  by  this  Board 
that  no  Pume  be  sould  within  this  Citty  &  County  to 
the  Indians  untill  further  Order. 


Citty  of  New  Yorke.     Att  a  Generall  Meeting  held  att 
the   Citty   Hall   within   said  Citty  on  Fryday  the 
third  day  of  May  A".  1689. 
Psntt: 

His  Honoy.  the  Liev!'  Governo' 
Stephf.  V.  Cortlandt,  Esq'  Mayof 
Frederick  Phillips,  Esq. 
Coll:  Nicho:  Bayard 

John  Lawrence       ^ 

Francis  Pombouts  I 

Polus  Pichards,       |    Ald'men 

WT  Merritt  J 

Balthus  Bayard 

Ant^  D.  Mill 

Theunis  Dekey         f   Comon  Councill. 

Peter  D.  Lanoy 


276  DOCUMENTS    RELATING   TO    THE 

Vpon  the  complaint  of  John  Merritt,  &  Frederick 
Symonse  against  some  Indians  that  made  severall  shott 
at  them  in  the  Field.  The  Indians  being  examined 
were  checkt  &  forbidd  drinking  of  Rume  or  to  shoote 
their  guiis  any  where  nigh  Towne. 

Ald'man  John  Lawrence,  Wm.  Merritt  Mf  Theu- 
nis  Dekey  and  Peter  D  Lanoy  makeing  their  re- 
turne  according  to  a  former  Order  doe  find  about 
this  Citty  17  Gunns  without  carriages  and  think 
it  most  convenient  that  four  of  them  be  placed 
against  the  Widdow  Richardsons  three  to  be  placed 
on  a  platt  forme  without  the  Batterie  at  the  Watter 
gate  to  be  placed  vnder  the  fortt  and  three  or  four 
to  be  placed  on  the  Wharfe  by  Coll"  Dongan's  House, 
the  other  Gun  ;  or  two  on  the  Wharfe  nigh  the  State 
house. 

Ordered  that  Peter  King  Andries  Meyer,  &  John 
Meyer  carpenters  Suert  Olferts  Derrick  Vanderburgh  & 
Franse  Vander  Coope  Masons  are  appointed  to  view  the 
places  for  to  make  the  platt  formes  makeing  their  re- 
turne  what  planks  may  be  wanting  or  ought  elce  to  be 
finishing  of  the  same  their  report  to  be  made  on  Mun- 
day  morneing  next. 


Citty  of  New  Yorke.     Att  a  Generall  meeting  held  att 
the    Citty  Hall  within  said  Citty  on  Munday  the 
6"  day  of  May  A?.-  1689. 
Psntt. 

His  Hono""  the  Liev"  Governor 
Steph^  V:  Cortlandt,  Esqr  Mayo' 
Frederick  Phillips,  Esq!: 
Coll?  Nicol.  Bayard. 

John  Lawrence 

Francis  Rombouts 

Polus  Richards  .-.jj. 

Tho:  Crundall  Uld'men 

Wm.  Merritt 

Johanes  Kipp 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER. 


277 


Balth:  Bayard 
Theunis  Dekey 
Ant"  D.  Mill 
Peter  D^Lanoy 
Cap!'  Gabl'  Munviells 
Abr-™  Dpeyster 
Jacob  Leisler 
John  D.  Browne 
Charles  Lodwick 
Liev"  Henry  Cuyler 
Isaac  Van  Vlecq 
John  Haynes 
Hanns  Keerslee 
Ensig"  John  Dpeyster 
Saml!  Ba}ard 
Isaac  D  Biemer 


■Comon  CouncilL 


Military 
Officers. 


Mr  Peter  King  Andries  Meyer  &  John  Meyer 
Carpenters  Suert  Olferts  Derrick  Vandenburgh  & 
Franse  Vander  Coope  Masons  inakeing  their  returne 
according  to  their  Order  last  Court  doe  find  wantnig 
for  the  fortifying  the  Citty  300  ton:  of  Line  80  ps.  of 
Timber  for  posts  and  beames  12  foott  Long  8  a  9  Inches 
12000  Stockadoes  for  fillers  for  the  batteries  6  ps.  of 
Timber  20  foott  long  for  beames  8  a  9  inches  100  Sle- 
pers  for  the  platt  formes  2000  of  2  Inch  planks  for  y^ 
platt  formes  eleven  pf  of  wheeles  for  the  Carriages  10 
foott  long  14  inches  broade,  for  6  stiep  Carriages  7  of 
4  Inch  planks  10  foott  long  2  foott  broad  4000  Stocka- 
does for  the  brest  Avorke  6  foott  long  9  Inches  att  the 
boote  6  ps.  of  Timber  for  the  Gates  15  foott  long  12 
Inches  square  500  foott  of  2  Inch  planks  12  foott  long 
for  the  Gates. 

An  Order  for  advanceing  money  out  of  the  late  Tax 
for  the  souldiers  sent  up  to  Albany  for  to  pay  the  ar- 
rears due  to  the  respective  private  soldiers  now  passed 
this  Board  they  all  subscribing  thereto  except  M! 
Peter  D®  Lanoy,  John  Haynes,  John  Dpeyster  & 
Isaac  D  Hiemer. 


278  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

An  Order  that  y*  Revenue  be  imployed  for  the 
fortifying  of  this  City  now  passed  this  Board,  th(iy  sub- 
scribing thereto  except  Cap".  Abr™.  Dpeyster,  Cap" 
Charles  Lodwick,  Cap".  Jacob  Leisler,  M"^  Peter  t> 
Lanoy,  M*"  John  Haynes  &  M*"  John  Depeyster,  Frede- 
rick Phillips,  Esq*-.  AkUman  Tho  :  Crundall,  M^  Theu- 
nis  Dekey  &  Capt,  John  D.  Browne  are  appointed  a 
Committee  for  receiving  the  said  revenue  for  said  vse. 

Coll°.  Nicol  Bayard  AkFman  Wm.  Merritt  Peter  D^ 
Lanoy  &  Majo^  D.  Meyer  are  appointed  a  Comittee  to 
provide  the  materialls  for  the  fortifications. 

Coll :  Nicol :  Bayard  Ald'man  Francis  E-ombouts 
M^  Balthus  Bayard  &  M''  Isaac  Van  Vlecq  are  ap- 
pointed a  Comittee  to  inspect  y^  Acco".!  and  Ticketts 
of  the  Souldiers. 

Ordered  that  the  Proclamation  for  fortifying  the 
Citty  be  forthwith  published  and  coppyes  thereof  put  vp 
att  the  State  House  and  att  the  bridge. 

The  Order  also  for  imploying  the  revenue  be  forth- 
with published  &  coppyes  thereof  put  up  att  the  State 
house  and  att  the  Bridge. 

Citty  of  New  Yorke.     Att  a  General  Meeting  held  att 
the  Citty  Hall  within  said  Citty  on  Fry  day  the  Tenth 
day  of  May,  A?   1689. 
Psntt : 

His  Hono'  the  Liev"  Governo^ 
Steph.  V.  Cortlandt,  Esq.  Mayo-" 
Frederick  Phillips,  Esq. 
Coll".  Nicol.  Bayard. 

John  Lawrence  "] 
Francis  Rombouts  1 
Polus  Richards  ! 
"WT  Merritt 
Johanes  Kipp 
Tho:  Crundall 
Balth.  Bayard  "] 
Anto :  D.  Mill 
Theunis  Dekey 
Peter  D®  Lanoy 


-  AWmen 


^Comon  Councill 


ADMINISTRATION    OF   LEISLER. 


279 


Majo'  Nich  D.  Meyer 
Cap^.^  Gab"    Munviell 
Abr""  D.  Peyster 
Jacob  Leisler 
John  D.  Browne 
Charles  Lodwick 
LieV"  Henry  Cuyler 

Isaac  Van  Vlecq 
John  Haynes 
Ensig.  Sam^i  Bayard 
John  Dpeyster 
Isaac  D.  Rieraer 


Military  Officers. 


An  Order  for  defending  this  place  against  all  for- 
reigne  enemyes  and  suppressing  mutinous  persons  nigh 
us  subscribed  vnto  by  this  Board,  except  Cap"  John  D. 
Browne  who  was  absent  att  the  signeing  thereof. 

This  Order  to  be  forthwith  published  &  Coppyes 
thereof  put  vp  att  the  State  house  and  att  the  Bridge. 

Citty  of  New  Yorke.     Att  a  General  Meeting  held  att 
the  Citty   Hall  within  said  Citty  on  Satturday  the 
ir  day  of  May  A^  1689. 
Psntt : 

His  Hono''  the  Liev"  Governo' 
Steph  :  V  :  Cortlandt,  Esq"".  Mayo."" 
Frederick  Phillips,  Esq^ 
Coll?  Nicol :  Bayard. 
John  Lawrence 
Francis  Ronibouts 
Polus  Bichards 
Wm.  Merritt 
Johanes  Kipp 
Th5:  Crundall 
Balth.  Bayard 
Anto.  D.  Mill, 
Theunis  Dekey 
Peter  D®  Lanoy 
Majo'  Nich :  D.  Meyer 


Y  Ald'men 


Comon  Councill, 


280  DOCUMENTS  EELATING  TO  THE 

Cap^>.  Gab^.  Munviell 

Abr?  D  Peyster 

Jacob  Leisler 

John  D.  Browne 

Charles  Lodwick 
Liev"  Henry  Cuyler 

Isaac  Van  Vlecq 

John  Haynes 

Hans  Keerstee 
Ensig:  John  D  Peyster 

Sam"  Bayard 
Ab.  Isaac  D  Biemer 

M^  Ebinezar  Piatt,  M'  Matthew  Howell  and  M*:  John 
Wheeler  of  Suffolke  County  and  Cap"  John  Jackson 
of  Hainpstead  in  Queen's  County  givemg  an  acco"  of 
the  feares  and  jealousies  of  the  people  of  the  severall 
Counties  on  Long  Island. 

Besolved  that  a  Letter  be  sent  to  the  severall  Coun- 
ties that  they  would  send  up  to  New  Yorke  2  or  3  men 
of  every  County  whome  they  shall  think  most  fitt  (if 
they  see  Cause)  to  joyne  with  vs  in  the  Coinon  Councill, 
and  if  anything  of  moment  offers  to  render  acco"  to 
their  severall  counties  as  they  think  fitt. 

Citt}^  of  New  Yorke.     Att  a  General  Meeting  held  at 
the  Citty  Hall  within  said  Citty  on  Thursday  the 
16!  day  of  May  A°  Domi  1689. 
Psntt: 

His  Hono'  the  Liev"  Governor 
Steph:  V:  Cortlandt,  Esq.  Mayo^ 
Frederick  Phillips,  Esq. 
Coll^  Nicol.  Bayard 

John  Lawrence 
Francis  Bombouts 
Polus  Bichards  .,j- 

absent    Wm.  Merritt 
Johaues  Kipp 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER. 


281 


Balth:  Bayard 
Ant*?.  D.  Mill 

ab:     Theunis  De  Key 
Peter  D**  Lanoy 

Majo'  Nich:  D:  Meyer 

Cap"  Gab!!  Munviell 
Abr""  Depeyster 
Jacob  Leisler 

ab.     John  D.  Browne 
Charles  Lodwick 

Liev"  Henry  Cuyler 
John  Haynes 
Isaac  Van  Vlecq, 

ab:      Hanns  Keerstee 
Ensig:  John  Dpeyster 
Sam!!  Bayard 
ab:     Isaac  D  Biemer 
Comett  Jacob  Van  Cortlandt 


Comon  Councill 


I  Military  Officers 


Upon  the  peticon  of  Cap"  Ab"^  Dpeyster  Mi:  Tho: 
Coker  and  other  the  Inhabitants  of  this  Citty  that  the 
line  for  fortifying  the  said  Citty  might  not  run  throuo;h 
or  before  their  Lotts  of  Ground. 

The  which  peticon  was  in  debate  by  this  Board  and 
referred  till  the  next  sitting  for  a  further  consideration 
therein: 


Citty  of  New-Yorke.     Att  a  Generall  meeting  held  att 
the  Citty  Hall  within  said  Citty  on  Satturday  the 
18!  day  of  May  A?  1689. 
Psntt: 

His  Hono""  the  Liev"  Governor      ^ 
Steph:  V:  Cortlandt,  Esq""  Mayo"^ 
Coll!  Nicol:  Bayard 

John  Lawrence 
Francis  Kombouts 
Tho :  Crundall 
Wm.  Merritt 


Aid' 


282 


DOCUMENTS    RELATING    TO    THE 


Ant?  D.  Mill  ) 

Theunis  DeKey  j 

Majo'-  Nich.  D  Meyer  ] 

Cap"  Gabl!  Munviell  \ 

Jacob  Leisler  1^ 

Abr'?  Dpeyster 

Charles  Lodwick 

Corn^.^  Jab.  V.  Cortlaudt  , 


Comon  Councill 


Military  Officers. 


Vpon  the  Rumor  of  Warr  and  suppos*^  Invasion  of 
the  French 

Itt  is  ordered  by  this  Board  that  the  fortifications 
for  this  Citty  be  layd  according  to  the  ancient  bounds 
agreeing  with  the  late  order  returned  by  an  appointed 
Coiiiittee  Irom  this  Board  dureing  this  exigency  of 
time  and  in  case  of  peace  Itt  is  then  the  opinion  of  this 
Board  that  the  right  owners  may  forthwith  remove  the 
same  and  the  materialls  belonging  to  said  fortifications 
to  bee  returned  for  the  vse  of  the  Citty. 

Ordered  that  the  Inhabitants  of  this  Citty  concerned 
in  the  peticou  about  y®  fortifications  appeare  here  on 
Munday  by  two  of  y^  Clock. 


Citty  of  New  Yorke.     Att  a  Generall  Meeting  held  att  the 
Citty  Hall  within  said  Citty  on  Munday  the  20*^ 
day  of  May  A!.  1689. 
Psntt : 

His  Hono!'  the  Liev"  Governo'" 
Steph:  V:  Cortlandt,  Esq'  Mayo"" 
Frederick  Phillips,  Esq 
Coll!  Nicol.  Bayard 

John  Lawrence 
Francis  Rombouts 
Polus  Richards 
Johanes  Kipp 
Wm.  Merritt 
Balth:  Bayard 
Theunis  Dekey 


Aid-- 


Comon  Councill 


ADMINISTRATION   OF   LEISLER. 


283 


Majoy  Nich :  D  Meyer  ' 
Cap?'  Gab."  Muiiviell 
Abr™  Dpeyster 
Jacob  Leisler 
John  D.  Browne 
Charles  Lod-wick 
Liev"  Henry  Cuyler 

Isaac  Van  Vlecq 
_      Hanns  Keerstee 
Ensg :  Sam  !1  Bayard 

Isaac  D.  Biemer 


Military  Officers 


Ordered,  that  ColP.  Bayard,  AWman  W^  Merritt, 
Peter  D'^Lanoy  and  Majof  D.  Meyer  agree  with  M"; 
John  Holwell  or  who  elce  they  shall  think  convenient  to 
bee  engineer. 

This  Board  takeing  it  into  consideracoii  the  greatt 
difficulty  for  all  of  them  to  meet  together  so  often  as 
occasion  may  require  doe  think  fitt  and  accordingly  or- 
ders that  a  select  number  of  them  be  made  choice  of  to 
represent  the  whole  the  following  persons  being  by  this 
Board  accordingly  appointed,  \dz" : 


Majo: 
Cap'.' 


Francis  Bombouts 
Wm.  Merritt 
Theunis  Dekey 
Peter  D'^Lanoy 
Nich.  D  Mever 
Gabli  Munviell 


Liev"  John  Haynes 
Ensig  Isaac  D.  Biemer 


Ald'men 
Comon  Councill 


Military  Officers 


J 


City  of  New  Yorke.     Att  a  Generall  Meeting  held  at 
the  Citty  Hall  within  said  Citty  on  Wednesday  the 
22'^  day  ofMay  A°  1689. 
Psntt : 

His  Hono""  the  Liev"  Governo'" 
Steph :  V :  Cortlandt,  Esq'  Mayo' 
Frederick  Phillips,  Esq.' 
Coll".  Nicol :  Bayard 


284 


DOCUMENTS    RELATING   TO   THE 


John  Laurence 
Francis  Rombouts 
Wm :  Merritt 
The:  Crundall 
Polus  Richards 
Johanes  Kipp 
Peter  D^Lanoy 
Balth:  Bayard 
Theunis  Dekey 
Majo""  Nich.  D  Meyer 
Cap 5  Gab"  Munviell 
Jacob  Leisler 
Abr""  Dpeyster 
Charles  Lodwick 
Liev"  John  Hajaies 

Isaac  Van  Vlecq 
Hanns  Keerstee 
Jacob  V.  Cortlandt 
8am."  Bayard 
John  Dpeyster 
Isaac  D.  JRiemer 


AWmen 


Comon  CounciU 


Corn, 
Ensg 


Military  Officers. 


A  Paper  was  brought  to  this  Board  by  Coll?  Bayard 
which  was  delivered  vnto  him  last  night  in  the  p^'sence 
of  the  Liev"  Govemo''  by  severall  of  the  Inhabitants  of 
this  Towne  containeing  severall  jealousies  and  demon- 
strations of  their  disturbed  minds. 

Ordered  that  some  of  the  people  that  delivered  the 
Peticofi  to  Coll:  Bayard  be  sent  for  who  refused  to  ap- 
pear desireing  (by  the  Marshall)  to  have  an  answer  upon 
their  Peticoii  in  writing  or  their  Peticofi  returned  to 
them  :  Whereupon  it  was  ordered  that  the  Mayo""  Stephf 
Van  Cortlandt,  Esq^  should  goe  to  them  to  desire  them 
to  sign  their  peticoii  or  send  some  of  them  to  discourse 
the  matter  or  otherwise  that  the  said  Cortlandt  should 
enquire  of  them  their  intention  who  accordingly  went 
and  gave  them  satisfaction  of  almost  all  their  desires 
except  the  last  article  concerning  Coll?  Dongan  who 
they  desired  might  come  and  live  in  Towne  as  formerly 


ADMINISTRATION   OF    LEISLER. 


285 


and  not  to  depart  this  Government ;  But  notwithstand- 
ing desired  an  answer  in  writeing  or  their  peticofi  re- 
turned. 

Ordered,  that  Capt"  Leisler  and  Cap"  Lodwick  re- 
tume  the  peticofi  to  the  people  and  answer  them  verbal- 
ly that  two  or  three  messengers  shall  be  sent  to  Coll. 
Dongan  for  to  desire  him  to  returne  to  this  place  to  re- 
move all  jealousies  of  his  departure  provided  they  doe 
promise  vpon  Oath  to  their  respective  Captaines  that 
they  will  doe  no  harme  to  his  person. 

As  to  the  other  grievances  all  Imaginable  care  shall 
be  taken  to  sattisfaction. 


Citty  of  New  Yorke.     Att  a  Generall  Meeting  held  att 
the  Citty  Hall  within  said  Citty  on  Fry  day  the  24! 
day  of  May  Al  1689. 
Psntt : 

His  Hono*"  the  Liev"  Governor 
Steph:  V:  Cortlandt,  Esq.  Mayor 
Frederick  Phillips,  Esq"" 
Coll?  Nicol :  Bayard. 
John  Lawrence 
Francis  Pombouts 
Polus  Richards 

Tho:  Crundall         I   Ald^men 
Johanes  Kipp 
Wm.  Merritt 
Balthus  Bayard 

Peter  D'^Lanoy         y   Comon  Councill 
Theunis  Dekey 
Cap"  Gab'^  Munviell 
Charles  Lodwick 
John  D.  Browne 
Liev"    Isaac  Van  Vlecq     [  Military  Officers. 
Corn'!   Jab:  V.  Cortlandt  | 
Ensig.  John  Dpeyster 

Isaac  D  Kiemer      J 
The  Letter  from  the  Inhabitants   of  Albany  dated 
the  2V'  day  of  May  AZ  1689  by  Mf  Robert  Livingston 


286 


DOCUMENTS    RELATING   TO    THE 


being  read  att  this  Board  acquainting  that  the  Tra- 
ders of  Ottowaw  might  have  a  Coihission  or  Letters 
of  mark  from  this  place  to  warr  with  the  French  att 
Cannedie. 

Ordered,  that  they  are  wrote  to  in  answer  mention- 
ing the  approbacon  this  Board  hath  of  their  readyness 
and  forwardness  therein,  but  withall  requireing  and 
comanding  they  they  would  desist  till  further  order  from 
England. 


Ald'^men 


Citty  of  New  Yorke.     Att  a  Generall  Meeting  held  att 
the  Citty  Hall  within  said  Citty  on  Fry  day  the  31* 
day  of  May  A  °  1689. 
Psntt. 

His  Honor  the  Liev"  Governo"" 
S.  V.  Cortlandt,  Esqr  Mayor 
Frederick  Phillips,  Esq. 
Coll!  Nicol :   Bayard 
John  Lawrence 
Francis  Kombouts 
Polus  Bichards 
Tho:  Crundall 
Johaiies  Kipp 
Wm:  Merritt 

Peter  D^Lanoy.  Comon  Councill. 

Cap^.'   Gab'..' Munviell 
Abr™  D  Peyster 
Charles  Lodwick 
Liev"  John  Haynes 

Isaac  Van  Vlecq 
Hanns  Keerstee 
Cor."   J:  V:  Cortlandt 
Liev"  Henry  Cuyler 
Ensg  John  D  Peyster 
Isaac  D.  Biemer 


Military  Officers. 


Vpon  His  Hono'"'  declaring  to  this  Board  y®  factious- 
ness and  rebelliousness  of  divers  the  Inhabitants  of  this 
place  John  Lawrence,  William  Merritt  Ak?men,  and 


ADMINISTRATION    OF   LEISLER.  287 

Captt.  Gab^I  Munviell  doe  in  p'"sence  of  this  Board  open- 
ly protest  against  any  such  factions  and  rebellious 
people,  but  do  declare  to  the  vttermost  of  their  powers 
they  will  stand  vp  for  the  good  of  the  Government  and 
the  Crowne  of  England  the  rest  of  the  bord  resolveing 
the  same. 

Collo.  Bayard  declareing  of  the  Rumors  and  jealou- 
sies of  the  people  concerning  six  or  seaven  private  soul- 
diers  lately  come  to  this  Citty  from  Boston. 

His  Hono''  in  answer  proposeth  to  this  Board  that 
any  of  them  please  to  appoint  lodging  for  them  where  they 
shall  think  most  fitt  and  that  then  he  would  be  carefull 
they  might  not  want  which  was  agreed  on  and  Coll" 
Bayard  desired  to  provide  Quarter  for  them. 

Ordered,  that  AkFman  Tho  :  Crundall,  and  M'" 
John  Haynes  make  inquiry  of  the  severall  Inhabitants 
of  this  Citty  what  Quantity  of  Gunpowder  they  have 
within  their  severall  houses  or  elce where  making  their 
returne  to  the  Mayo""  by  nine  of  the  clock  tomorrow 
morneing  and  in  the  meantime  that  none  bee  shipt 
off  till  further  Order. 

Citty  of  New  Yorke.     Att  a  general  meeting  held  att 
the  Citty  Hall  within  said  Citty  on  Fryday  in  the 
evening  being  the  SP^  of  May,  A°  1689. 
Psntt : 

His  Hono''  the  Liev"  Govemo' 
S.  V.  Cortlandt,  Esq!"  Mayo' 
Frederick  Phillips,  Esq''. 
Coll"  Nicol.  Bayard 

John  Lawrence 
Francis  Kombouts 
Wm.  Merritt  |.Ald''men 

Tho :  Crundall 
Johailes  Kipp 

Peter  D  Lanoy,         Comon  Councill 
Cap^.!  Gab"^.  Munviell 
Abr?  Dpeyster 
John  D.  BroAvne 


288 


DOCUMENTS    RELATING    TO   THE 


Leiv"  John  Haynes 

Hanns  Keerstee 
Cor**   J.  V.  Cortlandt 

Tlie  Inhabitants  of  New  Yorke  ryseing  this  after- 
noone  have  taken  possession  of  the  Fortt,  disarmed 
the  souldiers,  and  came  with  a  squadron  armed  in 
Courtt  demanding  the  keys  of  the  Garrison  and  with 
force  would  and  will  have  them  they  forced  Cap"  Lod- 
wick  to  come  into  the  Towne  hall  and  came  there  arm- 
ed demanding  the  keys  againe  and  would  have  them  de- 
livered to  Cap"  Lodwick,  the  Liev"  Governo''  seeing  him- 
self forced  asked  the  advice  of  this  Board  what  to  doe 
in  this  confused  businesse. 

This  Board  for  to  hinder  and  prevent  bloodshed  and 
further  mischiefe  and  for  endeavouring  to  quiett  the  minds 
of  the  people  think  it  best  considering  they  being  forced 
to  itt  to  let  them  have  the  keys. 

His  Hono""  proj^oseing  to  this  Board  what  way  or 
whether  any  meanes  may  be  found  to  reduce  this 
people  from  their  riseing  or  what  other  method  may 
bee  taken  to  bring  them  to  their  former  obedience, 
This  Board  are  of  opinion  that  there  is  noe  way  to  re- 
duce them  by  force  but  their  advice  is,  since  they 
are  rise  on  their  owne  heads  without  any  aid  that 
they  be  lett  alone  for  some  time.  His  Hono""  also  pro- 
posing what  might  be  most  fitting  to  be  done  with  the 
money  in  the  Fortt. 

It  is  by  this  Board  thought  fitt  itt  bee  removed  into 
the  House  of  Frederick  Phillips,  Esqy 

It  is  desired  by  his  Hono^  that  no  officers  head  these 
men. 

Citty  of  New  Yorke.     Att  a  General  meeting  held  att 
the  Mayo?  house  Steph  :  Van   Courtlandt  Esq"!  on 
Thursday  the  6°.  day  of  June  A^  1689. 
Psntt: 

His  Hono^  the  Liev"   Governo' 
S.  V.  Cortlandt,  Esq'  Mayor 


ADMINISTRATION    OF   LEISLER.  289 


Frederick  Phillips,  Esq^ 
Coll  ?  Nicol.  Bayard. 
John  Lawrence 
Polus  Richards 
Wm.  l^Ierritt 


[  Ald^'men. 


Johannes  Kip         J 

Whereas  those  persons  now  in  possession  of  the  Fort 
have  caused  men  to  goe  armed  in  a  boate  upon  the  ar- 
rivall  of  a  ves«ell  and  forced  the  persons  comeing  ashore 
to  gf>e  up  to  said  Fortt  deliver  their  Letters  breaking 
them  open  ]:>articularly  two  letters  of  the  May"  S.  V. 
Cortlandt,  Esq'!  As  also  have  caused  a  scentry  to  be 
kept  by  land  about  one  mile  from  the  Towne  and  there 
caused  people  to  be  stopt  particularly  one  M""  Phillip 
French  who  came  from  England  by  way  of  Boston  and 
other  Insolencies  have  C omitted 

Whereupon  the  Governor  and  Councill  have  thought 
iitt  and  thereupon 

Ordered,  that  Ald'man  John  Lawrence  and  W"^ 
Merritt  do  visitt  the  severall  Capitaines  desireing  their 
company  to  this  Board. 

Cap".  Jacob  Leisler  being  desired  returned  answer 
he  would  not  come  neither  to  the  Goveno":  Councill 
Mayo""  or  AWmen  nor  had  not  any  thing  more  to  doe 
with  them. 

Cap"  John  D.  Browne  desired  to  be  excused  being 
upon  y^  Guard  but  after  his  guard  was  over  would 
waite  upon  them. 

Cap"  Gabl^.  Munviell  was  very  willing  to  come  but 
was  so  indisposed  could  not,  but  if  y®  Coll°  pleased  to 
send  two  or  three  words  he  would  freely  answer  thereto. 

Cap".  Abr°?  Dpeyster  and  Cap".  Charles  Lodwick 
did  returne  answer  they  would  send  word  Avhether  they 
come  or  not. 

This  Board  haveing  waited  about  an  houre  and  no 
answer  coming  from  Cap"  Dpeyster  and  Cap"  Lod- 
wick 

Whereupon  Itt  is  by  this  Board  resolved  that  a  pro- 
19 


290  DOCUMENTS    RELATING    TO    THE 

test  be  drawne  against  all  the  Captaines  except  Gab" 
Munviell. 

This  Booke  cent.  24  pages  from  foil.  1  to  24  is  a  true 
coppy  from  the  Originall  Minutes  of  the  Generall  meet- 
ings of  the  Liev"  Governo''  &  Councell  Mayo''  Akl'men 
Com  on  Councill  and  Military  Officers  att  the  Citty  Hall 
within  the  Citty  of  New  Yorke. 

Attested  this  10*  day  of  June  A°   1689. 
p  J.  Nicholls,  Towne.  CI 
Indorsed  N.  York  1689. 
Proceedings  of  y®  Councill,  Magistrates  and  Officers,  &*;. 

from  the  27*^  of  April  to  the  6  June. 

Cap.  Nicholson.     Rec^  29  Aug.  1690. 


MATHEW    PLOWMAN    TO    THE    MARQUIS    HALIFAX. 

New  Yorke  the  7*  June  1689. 
May  it  please  youre  Lordsh? 

I  was  to  waite  one  youre  Lordship  by  recommend  of 
my  Lady  Eliza*!'  Pierepoint  to  youre  Lady  for  sum  Irn- 
ploy  at  y^  Custom  House  when  my  Lord  Rochester  was 
Treasurer ;  3^oure  Lordship  may  please  to  Remember  y*. 
Lordship's  answare  was  that  something  had  happened  be- 
twixt you  that  youre  recommend  would  stand  me  in  very 
little  stead :  Affter  which  with  long  attendance  found  this 
jjlace  voyde  &  have  his  Maj*^''  Patent  under  y^  Great 
Scale  for  Collector  of  this  place  which  cost  upivards  of 
five  hundred  poundes  &  not  possessed  of  it  above  fifteene 
months  coming  from  my  famely  and  neere  sixtee  y cares 
would  bee  my  uter  ruin.  I  maried  Madam  Cartwrigh 
of  Osington  s  neece  :  and  am  qualified  to  take  the  oathes 
of  his  p'sent  Majesty  Soe  hope  that  your  Lordship  will 
bee  pleased  to  give  youre  assistance  to  y®  Lord  Treasurer 
or  Comitioners  of  y®  Tresurv  as  now  it's  maneged.  A 
Gentleman  of  y^  Temple  Mr  Andrew  Barry  and  my  very 
good  friende  will  M^aigh  your  Lordship's  "favors  in  my 


ADMINISTRATION    OF   LEISLER.  291 

behalfe  :  iiF  any  Gov'"  be  designed  for  this  must  have  at 
leaste  two  hundred  men  in  garrison  to  awe  theese  rebel- 
lious Dutchmen  which  at  present  followe  those  at  Bos- 
towne  y'  have  imprisoned  oure  Gov'  S*^  Edmond  Andross 
and  taken  y®  com*^  of  \-^  forte  from  our  L*  Gov''  Capt  Ni- 
collson.  With  Impatience  shall  attend  your  Lord- 
ships Com*!  The  Customs  of  this  place  will  maintaine 
the  Garison. 
(Coppy) 

New  Yorke  the  14*^'  August.  1689 
May  it  please  your  Lordship 

Ffearing  y*'  letter  should  mescarj-  wrote  to  your 
Lordship  y^  7  June  last  and  having  this  opertunity  as 
obleged  sende  youre  Lordship  y*"  coppy  &  hints  of  what 
ocurs  in  this  place  since  that  time  upon  theire  taking  y^ 
Forte  in  theire  Custody  :  which  iff  Capt.  Nicollson  oure 
L*  Gov'  wood  have  taken  advice  in  sending  for  those 
men  at  y^  forte  at  Alban}'  &  joyned  them  with  theese  few 
here  would  have  prevented  y^  burgars  cuming  in  but 
like  Dutchmen  once  theire  foot  then  theire  whole  Bodyes 
&  now  arbitrary  :  y*'  Sivill  powar  thay  doe  what  tay 
please  with  &  for  his  Maj**"*  revenues  in  Generall  abso- 
tely  deny  pay^  and  noe  remedy  but  wors  and  worse  untill 
a  Governour  comes  amongst  us  which  God  grant  sudin- 
ly  once  more  to  put  us  in  order:  Sir  Ed:  Andrewes 
as  now  cums  y^  newes  made  his  escape  from  y®  Castle  at 
Boston  to  Koade  Island  intending  for  England  but  sur- 
prised, wheather  they  will  keepe  or  send  him  back  to 
Bostowne  was  then  in  Dispute :  to  the  Eastward  of 
Bostowne  the  Indians  are  very  numeroues  and  make 
great  sloughter  amongst  y^  Christians  by  hole  famelies 
iff  not  prevented  will  be  of  ill  Consequence ;  what  I 
prayed  your  Lordshipp  for  in  my  last  as  for  my  Imploy 
now  humbly  intreate  your  Lordship's  favor  in  its  Conti- 
nuance whare  I  doubt  not  but  y*  youre  Lordship  shall 
heere  of  my  Compliance  in  my  duty  as  an  honest  man 
ouo-ht.     M'  Blathwaite  hath  acc°  from  time  of  mv  trance- 


292  DOCUMENTS    RELATING   TO    THE 

actions  &  doubt  not  but  to  Satisfacktion  ;  Youre  Lord- 
ship's Com*^*  I  shall  atend  &  am 

Your  Lordship's  most 

Copied  from  the  original  Letter  which  fnitllfnl    Xt  bnmhlp   Sprv* 

had  beeu  Sealed  and  was  Bupersciibei  lailUlUi   Oi.  llUIlIUlt;   Ot;i  V 

Mathew  Plowman 
To  Marquis  Halifax 
Lord  p'sident  of  his  maj"?  preve 
Counsell  at  Whitehall — 


HENRY    CUYLERS    DEPOSITION    CONCERNING    GOVERNOR 
NICHOLSON. 

Henry  Cuyi-er  Leu*  to  y^  Company  oif  Cap""  Abr"" 
DePeyster  aged  about  52  years  deposed  that  on  y^  30 
day  off  May  last  past  he  conmianding  half  a  Company 
off  the  trained  bands  in  the  fort  off  New  Yorke  gave 
order  to  one  his  Corp"  to  place  a  centinell  at  a  certain  sally 
porte  in  the  s''  fort  but  that  the  s*^  Corporall  returning 
declared  to  him  the  depon*  that  the  Corporall  of  the 
King  s  Souldiers  in  pay  in  the  said  fort  would  not  suffer 
him  to  place  a  centinell  there  and  that  afterwards  the 
Leu*  Governor  Cap*"  Nicholson  the  then  commander  in 
chief  returning  to  the  fort  sent  for  him  the  said  depo- 
nent to  come  to  him  in  his  Chamber  in  the  s*^  fort  which 
the  s*^  depon*  Imediately  did  and  desired  his  corporall 
Hendrick  Jacobse  to  goe  along  with  him  because  the 
s^  Corporall  could  speak  better  English  and  that  as  soon 
as  he  the  said  deponent  did  come  into  the  chamber  he 
called  for  his  s*^  Corporall  who  followed  him  to  come 
into  the  s*^  Chamber  which  he  did  and  that  as  soone  as 
the  Leut  Governor  saw  the  said  Corporall  he  rose  up  in 
a  passion  and  sayd  to  the  s*^  Corp"  you  rascall  what  doe 
you  here  ?  that  the  said  Corp"  returned  answer  that  he 
came  to  be  interpreter  to  him  the  said  deponent  wher- 
upon  the  s*^  Leu*  Gov'  tooke  down  a  Pistol!  which  hung 
by  the  wall  and  threatned  to  shoote  him  the  s'^  Corp^^ 
and  drove  him  out  of  the  rocmi  and  that  afterwards  the 
said  deponent  remaining  still  in  y^  roome  allone  with 
the  s'^  Leut  Gov'"  the  said  Leut.  Gov""  told  him  the  &^ 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  293 

depon^  that  there  was  so  many  rogues  m  the  Town  that 
he  was  not  sure  of  his  Life  nor  to  walke  the  streets  and 
that  he  the  said  Leu*  Gov'  said  that  before  it  wouhl  goe 
longer  after  this  manner  he  would  sett  the  town  in  f}Te 
and  furtlier  sayeth  not. 

Signed  Luy*  Henry  Cuyler. 

Sworne  before  me  this  10*^  of  June,  1689  New  Yorke 

Signed  Samuel  Mulford  Justice  of  y®  Peace. 


BY-LAWS     OF    CAPTIAN    LODWICK  S    COMP AJTY    OF   SOLDIERS. 

Translated  from  the  original  in  Dutch,  by  8.  Alofsen,  Esq. 

We  the  undersigned  Officers  and  Soldiers  in  the 
Company  under  the  command  of  Capt.  Charles  Lodwick 
agree  with  one  heai-t  and  consent  to  these  afterfollowing 
orders  to  be  observed  by  every  one  of  us  when  under 
arms. 

1.  We  all  promise  and  bind  ourselves  to  be  faithful 
to  our  Sovereign  King  W^illiam  and  Queen  Mary. 

2.  We  all  promise  and  bind  ourselves  that  upon 
warning  of  our  officers,  and  upon  the  first  beat  of  drum 
we  will  immediately  present  ourselves  at  our  ren- 
dezvouz  to  stand  our  guard,  or  send  somebody  else  in 
our  stead. 

8.  Those  of  us  be  they  officers  or  privates  who  shall 
refuse  to  obey  the  lawful  commands  of  their  superior 
officers  shall  pay  for  the  first  fault  one  piece  of  eight, 
and  for  the  second  time  two  pieces  of  eight,  and  after- 
ward at  the  discretion  of  the  officers. 

4.  He  who  shall  absent  himself  from  guard  or  ren- 
dezvous without  having  received  lawful  excuse  or  fur- 
lough shall  pay  for  this  fault   one  half  piece  of  eight. 

5.  He  who  shall  come  drunk  upon  the  guard  shall 
pay  two  quarts  (two  little  quarts). 

6.  He  who  upon  the  guard  shall  swear  or  curse  or  use 
the  name  of  the  Lord  in  vain  shall  pay  at  the  discretion 
of  the  officers. 

7.  He  wlio  shall  go  away  from  the  guard  or  from  tbe 
Company  without  furlough  shall  pay  one  quart  (little 


294  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

quart)  and  for  every  hour   he   shall  so  remain    away 
he  shall  pay  one  quart  (little  quart)  in  addition. 

8.  He  who  shall  rail  at  any  one  or  make  any  distinc- 
tion in  Nationality  or  otherwise  shall  pay  one  quai't 
(little  quart). 

9.  He  who  shall  have  been  found  sleeping  standing 
guard  shall  pay  one  half  piece  of  eight,  and  his  gun  shall 
Ibe  taken  away  (fi*om  him),  until  he  shall  pay  it. 

10.  He  who  shall  draw  a  sword,  threaten  or  beat  any 
one  upon  guard  shall  pay  one  half  piece  of  eight,  and 
his  musket  shall  be  taken  away,  and  further  at  the  dis- 
cretion of  a  Court  Martial. 

11.  He  who  shall  not  present  himself  at  the  ren- 
dezvous within  half  an  houi-  after  the  drum  has  gone 
around  without  lawful  excuse  or  having  obtained  per- 
mission shall  pay  as  if  he  had  been  absent. 

All  these  orders  we  promise  and  bind  oui-selves  to 
keep  and  maintain,  and  thereto  give  our  free  consent 
without  compulsion  that  if  any  one  of  us  should  break 
any  of  the  aforewritten  orders  we  submit  ourselves 
freely  to  the  penalt)^  and  request  that  if  any  one  of  us 
refuses  presently  to  give  satisfaction  then  a  sergeant 
and  four  privates  may  take  possession  of  so  much  of  our 
goods  as  will  make  satisfaction,  and  we  declare  this  to 
be  our  willing  desire  without  any  force. 

It  is  also  by  us  agreed  that  if  any  one  of  us  should  be 
necessitated  to  go  from  home,  and  if  he  has  a  fui-lough 
under  the  signature  of  his  Captain  or  lieutenants  he 
shall  only  pay  one  quart  for  every  time  he  shall  be 
so  absent  under  furlough,  unless  he  shall  put  another 
in  his  place  and  then  he  is  free. 

And  these  orders  are  to  be  continued  until  we  re- 
ceive further  orders  and  direction  from  England  from 
our  King  through  a  lawful  governor  or  otherwise  and 
not  longer. 

Witness  our  hands.     In  New  York,   9  July,   1689. 
Charles  Lodwick,  Cai9 
Isaac  van  Vlecq,  LL**"'] 

[This  document  also  bears  the  signatures  and  hands  of  the  memhers  of  the  company, 
some  of  which  are  illegible.] 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  295 


CHARLES     LODWICKS     DEPOSITION     CONCERNING    GOVERNOR 
NICHOLSON. 

I  Charles  Lodwicke  do  declare  upon  my  oath  that 
to  y*  best  of*  my  memory,  I  did  hear  our  late  Lieut'.  Gov- 
ernor Capt.  Nicholson  say  some  time  since  that  we  here 
meaning  the  Inhabitants  of  this  Government,  could  but 
account  ourselves  as  a  conquered  people,  and  therefore 
we  could  not  so  much  claim  rights  and  privileges  as 
Englishmen  in  England  but  that  the  prince  might  law- 
fully govern  us  by  his  own  will  and  apoint  what  laws 
he  pleases  among  us  or  words  to  that  effect. 

Signed  Charles  Lodwick. 

Sworn  this  25th  day  of  July,  1689  in  l^ew  Yorke 
before  me. 

Signed  Gerard  Beekman,  Justice. 


LEISLER  S  WARRANT  AND  INSTRUCTIONS  TO  JOHANNES  PROVOST, 
ETC. 

These  two  papers  are  copied  from  the  originals  in  the  same  spelling  in  the  Possession 
of  Mr.  Gerardus  Duyckinck  of  New  York.    [Dc  Simitiere.] 

By  the  Capt  Apointed  to  Secure  y^  Fort  in  N :  Yorke 
for  their  majesties  William  and  Mary  King  &  Queen 
of  England,  &'^.'^ 

Upon  one  urgent  occasion  is  dispatched  by  me  Mess. 
Johannes  Provost,  Gerrit  Hardenberg  En  Mess  Gerrit 
Deuken  for  Esopus  en  Albanj-  with  their  Majesties  Boatt 
which  I  hereby  Certifey  ond  all  Persons  are  hierby  re- 
quired in  their  majesties  name  to  be  ayding  &  assisting 
to  them  as  there  shall  be  occasion  in  furnishing  them 
with  horses  or  Boatts  in  there  Journey  thither  and  re- 
turning En  to  lett  them  passe  without  any  manner  of 
Lett,  hindrance  or  molestation  whatsoever  given  onder 
myn  hand  and  Sealle  in  the  Fort  in  N  :  Yorke  12  off 
Aug.  1G89.  Jacob  Leisler. 


296  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

[Translated  from  the  Original  in  Dutch  by  S.  Alofeen,  Esq.] 

A  1689  In  N.  Yorke  the  12 :  Aug. 
Instruction  for  Mr.  Gerrit  Hardenhergh  and  Mr.  Gerrit 
Deuken  and  Johannes  Provost. 

The  Package  of  Letters  for  the  Esopus  deliver  those 
to  Captain  Beekman  and  Lieutenant  Jacob  Kutsen. 

For  Albany  to  Captain  Johannes  Wendell  and  Cap- 
tain Bleeker.  It  is  necessary  at  both  places  to  make 
them  well  and  clearly  understand  the  Interest  they  have 
in  the  protocols  and  Records  which  have  been  carried 
away  which  is  a  mean  business  and  was  accomplished 
only  by  a  conspiracy  of  the  deputies  and  the  recovery 
from  Boston  of  all  or  of  a  part  can  and  ought  to  be  tried 
for  their  absence  incapacitates  us  and  themselves  They 
ought  to  acquaint  us  with  all  their  oppressions  for  our 
burghers  have  declared  themselves  for  them  as  well  as 
for  us,  for  we  who  know  it  but  only  had  heard  of  it  from 
them  have  demonstrated  by  presenting  a  Petition  but 
the  Petitioners  have  been  condemned  in  a  wicked  penalty 
which  was  executed  in  a  godless  manner.  Louis  Du 
bois  has  with  my  knowledge  been  obliged  to  pay  700 
Schepel  wheat  for  a  patent  of  his  land  and  was  fined 
because  he  had  not  let  all  his  corn  rott  upon  it.  The  un- 
heard of  Imposition  concerning  the  Albany  Expedition 
of  not  allowing  for  what  had  been  delivered  by  force  for 
that  Expedition.  You  must  tell  them  by  what  wicked 
Lies  and  evasions  with  antedated  vouchers  and  Accounts 
and  abominable  Lies  de  Meyer  and  several  others  have 
tried  to  make  us  incapable  to  repair  the  King  s  fort  but 
by  urging  the  Papist  Collector  u})on  oath  it  was  found 
out  that  it  was  a  forged  Account  and  receipt  to  blind 
our  eyes. 

So  that  by  this  oath  we  have  found  between  3  a  400 
£.  money  received  for  Customs  and  about  400  of  the 
Country's  money  in  the  chest  413  <£  of  the  Country's 
money  in  the  hands  of  de  Mayer  which  he  tries  to  pilfer 
from  the  country  and  pretends  to  pay  himself  for  a  fic- 
titious debt  which  he  claims  to  be  due  to  him  from  Sir 


ADJriNISTRATION    OF   LEISLER.  297 

Edmoncl.  270  <£  Country's  money  still  in  the  hands  of 
the  Collector  which  he  pays  to  his  cronies  without  au- 
thority deducting  20  per  cent,  that  we  daily  find  them 
coUectino;  money  which  does  not  belons:  to  them. 

Further  represent  what  you  may  judge  necessary.  If 
at  the  Esopus  you  should  determine  to  travel  by  land  I 
agree  to  pay  to  them  or  to  others  all  expenses  for  horses 
upon  your  order — 

And  if  they  Resolve  to  send  some  deputies  ascertain 
if  they  will  come  with  you  they  shall  not  be  obliged  to 
anything  farther  than  wliat  they  together  with  us  will 
approve.  I  wish  you  a  safe  voyage  good  success  and 
God's  Blessing,  And  remain 

Your  affectionate  friend  And  Servant 

Jacob  Leisler. 


STATEMENT,    ETC.,    OF   ENSIGN   JOOST   STOL. 
[Translated  from  the  original  in  Dutch,  by  S.  Alofsen,  Esq.] 

New  York,  1689  the  20  August. 
List  of  the  Pa'pers  delivered  in  the  hands  of  the  Ensign 

Mr.  Joost  Stol  sent  to  England. 
No.  1  <fe  2.     An  inventory  of  what  was  found  and  made 
in  the  fort, 
3  &  4.     A  List  of  the  Soldiers  in  the  service  of  his 

Majesty  and  order  to  appear. 
5  &  6.     A  declaration    how  the  powder  was  and 
now  is. 

7.  An  order  to  proclaim  the  King  and  queen. 

8.  A  Deposition  of  Heudrick  Cuyler. 

9.  A  Deposition  of  Albert  Bos. 

10.  The  printed  deposition  of  Lieutenant  Cuylei' 

with  the  declaration  and  order  concerning 
the  matter  of  putting  the  fort  in  security 
of  which  a  law  suit  was  had  with  Nihkelse 
[Nicholson]. 

11.  A  declaration  relating  to  Allesauder  Euuis  En- 

glish Preacher. 
13.     An  Abstract   of    what  the    Committees   have 
done,  upon  the  order  of  his  majesty. 


298  DOCUMENTS    RELATING   TO    THE 

These  above  named  writings  delivered  in  the  hands 
of  the  Earl  Shi-ewsbury  who  had  been  ordered  to  me 
as  Commissioner. 

14.     An  account  of  what  happened  in  New  York 

which  at  the  request  of  the  friends  I  had 

had  written   for  but    found   that  I  had 

been  ignored  therein. — 

[15.]     A  letter  to  Mijlord  Crew :  delivered  by  the 

Duke  of  Monmoutli. 
[16.]     A  letter  to  de  gols  (?)  delivered  in  his  own 

hands. 
[17.]     A  letter  to  his  majesty  from  the  Captain  of 

the  fort. 
[18.]     A   letter  to  his  majesty  in  which  is  the  ad- 
dress of  the  Committee. 
By  the  Earl  of  Monmouth  introduced  to  his  majesty 
to  deliver  these  letters,  to  salute  his  majesty  and  make 
known  our  position;  which  I  have  done  and  deliver- 
ed the  letters  into  his  majesty's  own  hand  and  kissed 
his  hands. 

[19.]     A   letter  to  the  four  gentlemen  :  delivered 

but  not  opened. 
[20.]     A   letter  to  M?  W?  Wyting  delivered  into 
his  own  hands  and  found  there  with  him 
the  Domine  of  Boston  (Increase  Mather) 
and  the  son  of  the  Governor  of  Khode 
Island  and    found    them  very  favorable 
towards  us. 
21.     Was  my  instruction  which  has  been  well  exe- 
cuted and  observed. 
New  York  1690  May  23 

Then  the  paper  Sworn  before  me 

P.  D  La  Noy,  Mayor. 


SAMUEL        PAUL        DUFOUE  S        DEPOSITION        CONCEEN^ING 
MR.     RIGGS. 

New  York  Jau^  6*^  1689  |  90. 
The  Deposition  of  Mons^  Samuel  Paul  Dueour  aged 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  299 

twentyfive  yeares  or  thereabouts  upon  the  holy  evange- 
lists make  oath  and  saith 

That  y®  Deponent  being  at  Plymouth  in  the 
beginning  of  October  last  or  thereabouts  in  Company 
with  Capt"  Clerck  and  Capt°  Band  there  was  a  discourse 
concerning  M*"  Griggs  his  carrying  letters  from  y®  King 
over  to  Boston  in  New  England :  Capf  Band  replied  hang 
him  he  is  but  a  Pittyfull  fellow  (meaning  said  Griggs)  I 
have  seen  all  his  direccons  all  his  business  is  to  deliver 
y^  letters  to  them  that  have  y®  Government  and  then 
his  business  is  done  (or  words  to  this  purpose)  which 
this  deponent  in  few  days  afterwards  acquainted  y® 
said  Griggs  withall  who  showed  me  his  direccons  before 
Mrs.  Grahame  saying  as  soone  as  he  should  arrive  in 
Boston  he  would  go  to  New  Yorke  in  few  days  and  carry 
y^  letters  directed  thither.  I  y®  deponent  asked  him 
y®  said  Griggs  to  whom  he  would  deliver  them  who 
answered  he  knew  not  better  than  to  M-  Leisler,  being 
he  was  Governor  there. 

(Signed)  Samuel  Paul  Dufour 

Sworne  y^  date  above  said  in  y®  presence  of  Lieu*  Gov"" 
Jacob  Leisler,  Peter  de  la  Noy  and  Samuel  Edsall 
Councellors     (Signed)  Jacob  Milborne,  Sec^ 


COPY    of   RICHARD    LNGOLDESBY  S    COMMISSION. 

William  R. 

William  and  Mary  by  the  Grace  of  God,  King  and 
Queen  of  England,  Scotland,  France  and  Ireland,  de- 
fenders of  the  faith,  &".  To  our  Trusty  and  well  beloved 
Major  Richard  Ingoldesby,  Greeting.  Wee  reposing 
especiall  trust  and  Confidence  in  your  Loyalty,  courage 
and  good  Conduct,  doe  by  these  presents  constitute  and 
appoint  you  to  be  Captain  of  that  Company  of  Foot 
lately  raised  for  our  Service  in  our  Colonic  of  New 
York  in  America,  whereof  Charles  King  was  late  Cap- 
tain. You  ai*e  therefore  to  take  the  s*^  Comp^'  into  your 
Care  and  Charge,  and  duly  to  exercise  as  well  the  Officers 


300  DOCUMENTS  EELATING  TO  THE 

as  souldiers  thereof  in  Arms,  and  to  use  your  best  en- 
deavor to  keep  them  in  order  and  discipline ;  and  we 
hereby  command  them  to  obey  you  as  their  Captain, 
and  you  to  observe  and  follow  such  orders  and  direc- 
tions from  time  to  time  as  you  shall  receive  from  us, 
Our  Governor  of  New  York  now  and  for  the  time 
being,  or  any  other  your  superior  officer  according  to  the 
rules  and  discipline  of  warr,  in  pursuance  of  the  trust  we 
hereby  repose  in  you.  Given  at  our  Court  at  Kensing- 
ton the  10'^  day  of  September,  1690,  in  the  second  year 
of  our  reigne. 

By  his  Ma^^s  Command 
Nottingham. 
I  do  certify  this  to  be  a  true  copy 
Tho:  Hopkins. 


INGOLDSBYS    LETTER   DEMANDING   THE   FOET. 

Sr 

I  have  seen  y^  Copy  of  his  Maj*'.®*  letter  directed  to 
Lieu*  Gov*"  Nicholson  &f^  but  cannot  find  how  you  may 
derive  any  authority  to  yo'"  Selfe  from  thence.  I  want 
not  y®  accomodacon  you  speciously  olier  to  his  Maj".^^ 
Souldiers  under  my  Command  Possession  of  his  majesty's 
fort  is  what  I  demand  from  you — and  if  you  refuse  that 
I  must  esteem  you  no  friend  to  their  Maj*'.''^  King  Wil- 
liam and  Queen  Mary. 

S''  y''  most  humble  Servant 
(was  signed)  Eichaed  Ingoldsby. 

From  on  board  y®  Beaver 
the  30  of  Ja^  169f 
To  Capf"  Jacob  Leisler 
att  y^  ffort  in  New  York. 


INGOLDSBY  S    WARRANT   TO    CAPT.    SAMUEL   MOOEE. 

By  virtue  of  a  Commission  from  their  Maj*'®^  King 
William  and  Queen  Mary  to  me  I  do  will  and  require 
you    and    every  one  of  you   in   obedience  to   their  s*^ 


ADMINISTRATION    OF   LEISLER.  301 

Maj^i??  tliat  you  aid  and  assist  us  in  all  things  and  matters 
concerning  to  and  in  fulfilling  y^  s*^  Commission  &,  y* 
you  and  every  one  of  you  do  aid,  Show  &  are  ready  at 
all  times  &  with  speed  to  assist  me  in  all  things  for 
encompassing  and  overcoming  of  all  that  stand  in  Op- 
osicon  against  their  Maj''.^^  Commands  and  that  you 
cause  these  things  to  be  published  &  made  manifest 
with  all  Speed  as  may  be  and  that  we  shall  Deeme  & 
account  of  all  such  that  stand  in  Opposicon  to  be  rebells 
against  their  said  Maj*'?'  given  under  my  hand  and  Seale 
at  Armes  in  New  York  this  30'*'         169°-. 

(was  signed)  Richard  Ingoldsbt. 

To  Cap*  Samuel  Moore 

a  true  copy  by  me    (was  signed)     Sajiuel  Moore. 


By  the  Lieut*  Governour  &  C* 
Whereas  I  am  credibly  informed  y*  the  forces  on 
board  a  certain  ship  arrived  from  England  now  riding 
within    Sandy  Hooke  are  ordered  to  be  landed  upon 
Long  Island. 

These  are  to  will  &  require  you  y*  upon  y®  landing 
of  y®  said  forces  you  do  Entertain  them  with  all  Courtesy 
&,  accommodation  provided  they  appeare  not  in  hostility 
neithei'  commit  unlawfull  acts  upon  any  of  their  Maj*'*"" 
subjects  or  breake  y^  peace  of  their  Crowne  and  dignity 
upon  whose  arrivall  &  behaviour  you  are  to  give  me 
immediate  notice  and  observe  no  orders  or  commands 
whatsoever  but  from  myselfe  and  such  as  derive  from 
me  (untill  y^  arrivall  of  his  maj*^'^  further  orders)  and 
that  you  are  always  ready  both  horse  and  foote  to  doe 
duty  to  his  majesty  and  answer  y^  trust  reposed  in  you 
for  so  doing  this  shall  be  your  warrant  given  under  my 
hand  and  seale  at  Fort  "William  in  New  Yorke  Feb^  1** 
]  69°  and  in  y*  second  year  of  their  maj"®'  reigne. 

(Signed)  Jacob  Leisler. 

To  Major  Gerardus  Beekman"  and 
all  y*"  militai-y  officers  &  other  y" 
inhabitants  of  Kings  County  on  Long  Island. 


302  DOCUMENTS    RELATING    TO    THE 


LEISLER  S    ORDER    FOR   REDUCING   THE   FORCES    RAISED    BY 
THOMAS  CLARKE  AND  OTHERS  ON  LONG  ISLAND. 

By  the  Lieut.  Governor  &  Councill  tfeca. 

Whereas  there  hath  arisen  greate  disturbances  by 
Mr.  Thomas  Clarke  and  others  upon  Long  Island  pre- 
tending authority  from  the  hon'''®  Major  Ingoldesby  so 
to  doe,  by  confining  several  j^ersons  and  Seizing  of  my 
orders  for  preserving  their  Maj*'"**  peace  notwithstand- 
ing all  possible  endeavours  have  been  used  for  prevent- 
ing y®  same  which  hitherto  has  proved  ineffectual. 

These  are  therefore  in  their  Maj*'®*  said  names 
Strictly  to  forbid  all  persons  that  pretend  any  Author- 
ity from  the  said  Major  to  raise  forces  <fe  Quarter  the 
same  upon  his  Majesties  Subjects  upon  the  said  Island 
or  Committ  any  Acts  of  Violence  or  force  whatsoever, 
to  persist  therein  but  on  the  Contrary  that  they  forth- 
with retire  of  their  several  places  of  abode  peaceable  & 
so  remain  as  they  will  answer  the  contrary  at  their 
perils,  which  being  performed,  all  officers  which  are 
Commissionated,  are  likewise  commanded  to  dismiss  the 
forces  which  are  raised  for  Subduing  the  same  &  like- 
wise do  repair  to  their  several  habitations  as  if  Such  dis- 
orders had  never  been,  &  so  to  continue  unless  just 
occasion  should  require  the  contrary  &  the  Hon''^"  Major 
Ingoldsby  is  hereby  advertised  that  what  is  requisite 
to  be  done  on  his  part  may  be  instantly  performed. 
Given  under  my  hand  &  Seal  at  fort  W"  this  5  of 
Feby  in  the  second  year  of  their  Majesties  reigne  Anno 
Dom  166^. 


IN  THE  FORT. 

Fort  William,  Feb^  14,  169^. 
Sr. 
Relating  your  message  by  M''  Milborne  relating  y" 
prisonners  in  y^  fort  I  returne  for  answer  That  since  your 
arrivall  great  numbers  of  disaffected  pei-sons  to  y®  King's 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLEK  303 

interest,  Papist  &  others  who  are  fledd  from  justice 
have  taken  encouragement  to  come  into  this  city  and 
Comit  insolencies  agreable  to  their  disposition  which  if 
the  prisoners  now  in  durance  should  have  access  unto 
them  might  reduce  matters  off  such  a  state  that  it  may 
become  impossible  to  conserve  y^  peace  of  his  maj*^' 
subjects  in  this  province  having  had  large  experiences 
thereof  and  therefore  determine  that  they  remaine  con- 
figned  until  his  maj*^'  further  orders  arrive  rather  than 
expose  to  a  second  hazard  y®  peace  having  hitherto  been 
secured  God  be  thanked  without  bloodshed  but  shall 
withhold  nothing  that  may  be  for  their  comfortable 
substinance  nevertheless  your  charitable  offer  is  em- 
braced with  due  respect  &  all  imaginable  Courtesy  by 
S''  Your  most  humble  Servant 

Jacob  Leislee. 


LEISLER  S  ORDER   CONCERNING  PERSONS    FROM  ALBANY  AND 
ULSTER. 

By  the  Lieut*  Governor. 

Whereas  it  is  enacted  by  the  hon^'®  assembly  Octo- 
ber last  that  all  persons  inhabitants  or  freeholders  who 
should  depart  y®  city  and  County  of  Ulster  and  Albany 
without  Especiall  licence  from  ye  authority  Comission- 
ated  by  me  shall  forfeit  and  pay  the  sum  of  one  hundred 
pounds  tfec*  and  the  same  is  not  duly  observed  and  his 
maj"*'^  service  thereby  is  obstructed. 

These  are  therefore  to  will  and  command  all  persons 
that  are  come  from  thence  fortwith  to  repair  to  his 
maj*^®'  fort  before  me  and  shew  just  cause  for  their  de- 
parture else  to  be  proceeded  against  as  the  law  hath 
provided  in  such  case. 

Given  under  my  hand  in  fort  William  this  lYth  of 
FeV  in  the  third  year  of  their  Majesties  reigne  annoq. 
Dom.  1690 

(Signed)  Jacob  Leisler. 

God  -save  King  William  and  Queen  Mary, 


304  DOCUMENTS    RELATING    TO    THE 


LEISLER  TO  IN^GOLDSBY. 

Fort  William  March  V  169?- 
Sr 
Last  niglit  your  men  took  in3on  them  to  go  the 
rounds  of  this  City  under  Character  of  y^  City  Hall 
rounds  sundry  times  passing  by  this  fort  which  is  a 
province  that  neither  you  or  any  under  your  direction 
ought  to  tread  in. 

Therefore  these  are  to  advertise  you  that  you  do 
suffer  not  y^  same  any  more  to  passe  but  wholy  forbidd 
it  whereby  the  peace  of  his  majesty's  subjects  and  the 
Constitucons  of  the  said  City  may  be  preserved  as  of 
Right  belongs  which  is  the  needfull  at  present  from 
S*"  Your  humble  Serv! 

(Signed)  Jacob  Leisler. 


LEISLER  TO  COLONEL  DUDLEY. 

Fort  William  March  y«  4th  1690 
S' 
Capt"  Bradshaw   and   another  Gentleman  came  to 
me  this  Evening  with  a  message  from  certain  gentlemen 
nominated  for  his  Maj*^^  Councell,  off  several  particulars 
which  I  cannot  exactly  remember,  whereupon  I  addresse 
myself  to  your  Hands  for  a  copy  thereof  as  you  shall 
direct  so  sutable  return  may  be  made. 
I  am 

Your  humble  Servant, 
(Signed)  Jacob  Leisler. 

To  the  Honourable  CoP  Joseph  Dudley. 


A   DECLARATION    OF   THE   FREEHOLDERS    ^ND   INHABITANTS 
OF   LONG    ISLAND    AND   PARTS   ADJACENTS. 

Whereas  we  have  Received  an  order  from  their 
Maj''®^  Council  at  New  York  bearing  date  March  4**' 
1690  declaring  the  many  abuses  put  upon  their  Maj"^' 


ADMINISTRATION    OF   LEISLER.  305 

forces  whlcli  are  sent  over  for  our  preservacon  and 
protection  particularly  in  seizing  and  imprisoning  a 
Sergeant  and  three  centinells  hy  Jacob  Leisler  and  his 
accomplices  and  the  said  Jacob  Leisler  declaring  that 
Major  lugoldsby  or  any  under  his  proteccou  ought  to 
thread  upon  any  of  the  earth  of  this  Province  of  jSTew 
Yorke  and  the  said  order  desiring  our  assistance  and 
advice,  we  interpreting  the  sense  of  these  words  to  be, 
that  the  s^  Leisler  preserveth  this  Province  for  some 
foreign  Prince  or  State,  therefore  to  satisfy  all  their 
Maj"''*  King  William  and  Queen  Mary  loving  and  loyal 
subjects  of  our  intent  and  designe,  it  is  for  no  other  end 
but  for  to  preserve  their  peace  to  defend  and  secure 
their  Maj*'®*  forces  and  Comission  from  the  rage  tyrannies 
and  designes  of  their  Maj''*"^  Ennemies  and  to  assist  and 
advise  with  the  forces  y*  their  Maj*'^^  have  sent,  and 
we  do  farther  declare  to  all  their  maj*'^*  good  subjects 
that  we  will  not  molest  any  persons  on  their  Estates 
that  we  do  not  find  actually  in  arraes  ag'*  their  maj''^* 
coinission  and  y®  peace  of  their  Maj*'*"  Crowne  and 
dignity. 

(was  Signed)  Thomas  Willett 

Thomas  Clarke 
Daniel  AVhitehead 
Tho]mas  Hicks 
Samuell  Moore 

God  save  King  William  and  Queen  Mary. 

A  true  copy  examined  by  me 

(signed)  Johannes  Van  Ekelen. 


leisler  to  ingoldsby. 

•     Fort  William  March  5th  1690 
S' 
In  answer  to  your  message  with  the  drum  last  night 
I  send  four  men  of  yours  who  presumed  to  pass  this  fort 
l)y  Character  of  the  City  Hall  rounds  notwithstanding 
they  were  challenged  divers  times  by  the  Centinells  and 
20 


306  DOCUMENTS    RELATING    TO    THE 

would  not  stand  but  proceed  in  despight  thereof  for 
which  I  expect  you  do  render  an  account  I  having 
advertized  you  sufficiently  to  the  contrary  and  farther 
demand  his  niaj^*  subjects  which  by  you  or  your  orders 
are  at  present  configned  contrary  to  their  maj^^*  peace 
and  Quietness  of  the  Province. 

(Signed)  Jacob  Leisler. 


LEISLERS    DECLARATIOlSr    OR    PROTEST   AGAINST   INGOLDSBY. 

Whereas  almighty  God  through  his  wonderfull  mercy 
hath  raised  up  their  Maj"®^  King  William  and  Queen 
Mary  to  l)e  y®  glorious  instruments  of  delivering  their 
Kingdoms  &  dominions  both  Church  &  State  from  y** 
impositi(Mi  of  y*'  romish  religion  and  illegal  and  arbitrary 
power  exerced  under  y^  unhappy  reigne  of  y''  late  King 
James  which  hath  appeared  in  a  more  than  ordinary 
measure  within  this  province  of  New  Yorke  under  y® 
Governm*  of  Col**  Dongan  (by  letters  patent  from  y^  s*^ 
King)  a  professed  papist  who  together  with  seven  coun- 
cellors  had  power  to  make  laws  raise  and  levy  taxes  & 
transport  y^  inhabitants  out  of  this  province  without 
having  any  regard  to  advice  or  consent  of  y^  represent- 
atives of  y^  people,  which  said  power  was  continued  <fe 
augmented  by  Commission  from  y"  s^  King  James  ap- 
pointing S""  Edmund  Andros  governor  of  this  province 
as  well  as  New  England  (succeeding  y®  s^  Col°  Dongan) 
who  together  with  thirty  odd  Councelloi's  of  which  seven 
made  a  Quorum  did  act  accordingly  and  proceed  in  y® 
vigorous  prosecution  of  pernicious  practices  within  said 
province  (as  in  due  time  will  be  made  appear)  untill 
certaiue  notice  of  their  Maj"®^  Coronation  arrived. 

Y/hereupon  many  of  y^  good  inhabitants  of  this 
province  (zealous  for  the  protestant  religion  and  rejoic- 
ing at  so  glorious  an  accession)  to  discover  their  loyalty 
taking  incouragement  from  his  highness  y®  Prince  of 
Orange  (now  our  most  gracious  Sovereigne)  his  excellent 
memoriall  and  declarations,  did  secure  his  majestys'  fort 
displace  and  disenable  y*  lieut*  Governor  &  his  Councill 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  307 

and  Militia  settled  by  the  authority  of  said  King  James 
in  so  much  that  a  stop  was  pat  to  their  further  proceed- 
ings to  prosecute  their  maj"®^  &  to  preserve  in  their 
loyalty  did  Elect  representatives  for  each  county  in  the 
province  who  assisted  forthwith  to  proclaime  their 
Maj""'  William  &  Mary  King  &  Queen  of  England, 
France  &  Ireland  &  y®  territories  thereunto  belonging 
according  to  forme  and  becoming  ceremonies  in  opposi- 
con  to  y^  present  power  tfe"^  who  used  their  utmost  art 
and  diligence  to  prevent  it  making  farther  necessary 
steps  for  securing  y®  s*^  fort  City  and  Province  in  behalfe 
of  their  s*^  Maj*'*"'  untill  their  Koyall  pleasure  should  be 
known  concerning  us  which  accordingly  arrived  y®  10**" 
December,  1689  his  maj''^**  letter  bearing  date  July  y* 
30  foregoing  directed  to  Francis  Nicholson,  Esq.  &  in 
his  absence  to  such  for  y®  time  being  take  care  for  pre- 
serving y®  peace  and  administering  y®  lawes  in  this 
province  to  take  upon  them  y®  Gov""'  of  y®  s*^  Province 
requiring  to  do  and  perform  all  things  which  to  y^  place 
and  office  of  our  Lieut*  Governor  &  Com*''""  in  Chief  of 
our  province  of  New  Yorke  doth  or  may  appertaine  as 
you  shall  find  necessary  for  our  Service,  &"'*  untill  farther 
order  from  us. 

Now  so  it  is  we  are  certainly  informed  &  give  full 
credence  thereunto  that  their  present  maj"^^  have  Comis- 
sionated  his  Excellency  Col"  Henry  Sloughter  to  be 
Govern,  of  this  their  Province  of  New  Yorke  who  was 
parted  at  sea  fi-om  several  Ships  arrived  since  in  this 
port  with  officers,  souldiers  &  amraunicons  for  his  Maj*^* 
service  as  his  s^  Excellency  shall  appoint  who  hitherto 
has  given  no  order  or  direction  concerning  the  same, 
nevertheless  major  Rich^  Ingoldsby  hath  presumeth  to 
raise  men  and  levy  forces  within  this  pi'ovince  whereby 
hostilities  and  irregularities  are  Committed  to  y"  in- 
dignity of  their  maj'^*  supremacy  detraction  of  his 
Excelpy'  authority  &  perill  &  disturbance  of  y^  good 
people  therof  notwithstanding  he  the  &''  Maj""  hath  had 
repeated  advertisements  and  Cautions  to  y''  contrary  but 
altogether  disregarding  the  same  hath  persisted  in  y* 


308  DOCUMENTS    RELATING   TO    THE 

said  unwarrantable  practices  which  are  heightened  & 
emproved  by  certain  gentlemen  who  have  taken  upon 
them  to  sitt  as  councill  issuing  forth  their  orders  (unto 
persons  who  act  by  &  assert  y"  authority  of  y®  late  King 
James  to  be  lawfull)  for  raising  what  forces  can  be 
raised  in  Queens  County  &,(f  to  assist  their  maj"^*  officers 
in  pursuance  of  their  Comissions  &  Such  who  do  not 
appeare  according  to  y®  appointment  to  be  deemed 
Rebells  besides  other  publick  actes  relating  this  province 
without  discovering  or  publishing  any  authority  from 
his  majf  or  his  Excell^^  Col"  Sloughter  for  so  doing 
wich  being  very  pernicious  &  of  dangerous  Consequence 
unto  their  Maj*'°^  Interest  &,  y®  good  of  y®  Inhabitants 
Justly  creating  in  most  loyall  considerate  persons  doubt- 
full  apprehensions  concerning  y®  effects  hereof  as  to  y® 
security  of  y""  Lives  and  Estates  which  as  they  hitherto 
have  so  frankly  adventured  so  are  ever  ready  to  sacrifice 
in  asserting  compassing  in  defending  their  pres*  Maj^*''^ 
right  and  supreme  authority  in  and  over  this  province 
in  oppscon  to  y^  former  power  &  government  when  y* 
Papists  and  French  as  well  as  others  notoriously  dis- 
affected to  their  Maj"^'  Interest  are  not  only  embraced 
but  encouraged  and  enlivened  to  revenge  themselves 
upon  those  y'  have  suppressed  &  prevented  their  mis- 
chievous accons  &,  enterprizes  &  for  y^  more  specious 
canying  on  off  their  designes  y*  they  may  not  be  with- 
out plausible  pretences  whereby  to  stirr  up  Exite  and 
gather  people  to  their  assistance  have  published  a  certain 
manifest  or  declaration  made  at  y®  City  Hall  by  Six 
Esq"'^  of  y®  Councill  and  two  Capt°'  comanding  his 
Maj"^"  forces  wherein  is  comprehended  divers  falsehoods 
and  supposed  matters  which  cannot  be  made  out  with 
truth  to  render  y®  Lieut"  Gov""  Leisler  criminal  and 
odious  amongst  the  inhabitants  of  this  Citty  &  Province 
which  in  due  season  will  appeare  to  y®  contrary  not 
douV)ting  but  to  aprove  both  his  Loyalty  and  integrity 
for  their  Maj*'®*  service  and  interest  and  y''  preservacon 
&  security  of  this  province  &  y®  good  inhabitants  thereof 
against  the  domesticq.  <fe  foreign  enemies  notwithstand- 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  309 

ing  y^  malice  and  prejudice  of  his  adversaries  declaring 
hereby  y*  he  had  no  other  designe  Intent  or  purpose 
whatsoever  than  service  to  their  Maj*'^*  y^  Conserv""  of 
y®  public  wealth  &  security  of  this  Colony  untill  y^  ar- 
rival of  his  Excellency. 

Wherefore  y®  s*^  Lt  Gov""  is  constrained  to  declare 
&  solemnly  protest  against  all  such  irregular  unwai'rant- 
able  proceeding  before  mention*^  &  y®  authors  councellors 
promoters  &  abettors  of  y®  same  as  the  causes  of  all 
homicides,  bloodsheds  &  other  mischiefs  and  damages 
that  shall  ensue  thereupon  &  are  hereby  required  forth- 
with to  disband  their  forces  raised  within  this  province 
who  are  comanded  to  repair  to  their  severall  places  of 
abode  &  keep  their  maj"^^s  peace  &''^  this  done  and 
published  at  Fort  William  y"  10th  of  March  in  y«  third 
yeare  of  the  Reigne  of  our  Sovei-eign  Lord  &  Lady 
William  &  Mary  King  &  Queen  of  England,  Scotland, 
France  &  Ireland  <fe*  Defenders  of  the  Faith  anuoq 
Dom  169"^. 


LEISLER  8    LETTER   TO    COL.    SLOUGHTER   AT   BERMUDA. 

Fort  William  march  y«  12^^^  169?- 
Sir. 
Though  your  Excellency's  absence  &  y®  exorbitances 
of  Major  Ingoldesby  (encouraging  y^  malice  of  Papists 
&  other  ennemies  to  their  Maj*'"^  accession  to  the  Crowne 
whatever  they  now  pretend)  Things  are  brought  unto 
such  a  disorder  and  evil  Crisis  which  threatned  the 
destrucon  of  this  province  &  Consequently  great  pre- 
judice to  the  nabouring  parts  of  America  being  not  a 
little  heightned ;  the  nominated  Geutl"^  of  y^  King's 
Councill  issuing  forth  orders  to  increase  such  forces  in 
somuch  that  if  an  overruling  Providence  diverts  not  it 
is  impossible  to  continue  in  this  state  many  days  without 
bloodshed  which  so  happily  hitherto  has  escaped  it  not- 
withstanding our  resolucons  are  firmly  bent  and  as  all 
possible  means  hitherto  hath  been,  so  still  shall  be  used 
to  prevent  it,  This  being  a   reason  which  requires  y* 


310  DOCUMENTS    RELATING   TO    THE 

strictest  union  whereby  y®  common  enemy  might  be 
opposed  &  j"  province  better  fortified  and  strengthened 
for  their  maj*'"*  service,  pray  God  send  your  Excellency 
amongst  us  Spedily,  which  that  y""  Stars  may  be  propi- 
tious as  it  is  our  longing  expectation  So  it  shall  be  y** 
dayly  pi-ayers  of  your  ExcelP^'s  most  humble  servant 
(Signed)  Jacob  Leisler. 


LEISLER's    order   to    CAPT.  DUYKING  COlSrCERNENG   THE 
BLOCK  HOUSE. 

By  the  Lieut*  Governor  Etc* 

Whereas  great  disturbances  and  troubles  have  arisen 
by  Major  Ingoldesby  &  his  accomplices  having  obtained 
forces  who  threatened  this  his  Maj*'^^  and  the  block 

house  of  this  City  to  assault  them. 

These  are  in  his  Maj''^'  name  to  will  &  command 
you  to  secure  the  block  house  in  y®  behalf  of  their 
Maj"^^  King  William  and  Queen  Mary  against  all  or 
any  persons  whatsoever  that  shall  assault  attack  or 
make  any  opposicon  against  it  and  do  not  behave  them- 
selves according  to  y®  rules  of  war  hereby  empowering 
and  requiring  to  employ  and  use  all  forcible  means  and 
hostilities  against  them  for  y®  preservacon  of  that  post 
and  y®  destrucon  of  y®  offenders  for  which  this  shall  be 
your  sufficient  warrant.  Given  under  my  hand  and 
scale  at  Fort  William  in  New  Yorke  the  13'^  of  March 
in  the  third  year  of  their  Maj*'^'  Reigne  Annoq.  Dom. 
169J  (Signed)  Jacob  Leisler. 

To  Capt°  Garratt  Duyking 

Ensigne  Abraham  Brazier 

Ensigne  P.  Dmill  and 
the  rest  of  the  officers. 


SLOUGHTERS    WARRANT    TO     INGOLDSBY   TO     TAKE    POSSES- 
SION  OF   THE   FORT,    ETC. 
S' 

You  are  hereby  ordered  to  march  your  Company 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  311 

of  Foote  before  the  fort  of  this  City  and  againe  demand 
y^  delivery  thereof  instantly  and  when  you  are  in  Pos- 
session, if  Capf"  Leisler  and  the  persons  call'd  his  Council 
do  not  render  themselves  arrest  them  in  their  Maj""^ 
names  and  send  them  forthwith  before  me  in  Councill. 

Your  friend, 

H.  Sloughter. 
New  Yorke  March  20  ^'^  169?- 
To  Major  Richard  Ingoldesby. 


ACCOUNT  OF  WHAT   PASSED  WHEN    LIEUT.  CHURCHER    CAME 
BEFORE   THE    COURT. 

The  following  paper  is  copied  in  the  same  speUingaa  the  original  before  me.   [Du  Simitikre.] 

An  a  Count  of  what  past  before  the  Court  Concern- 
ing of  Lieut*  Churel  (Churcher)  the  presentment  was 
red  he  was  asked  wheather  gilty  or  not  gilty  he  said  not 
gilty  Judg  (Dudley)  tould  him  he  was  Aparentary 
Eliterate  fellow  y®  line*  answeared  &  said  what  he  did 
he  was  commanded  to  doe  which  Command  he  though 
in  Contions  he  ought  to  obay  &  that  the  fort  was  then 
his  abiding  please  &  y"  please  he  did  then  ofisuate  he 
had  a  Commistion  for  and  furder  he  did  dasier  the 
benefit  of  the  act  past  y®  King  and  Parliament  datted 
Jena  27.  1689.  Judg  Dudly  asked  him  for  his  Com- 
mistion which  he  gave  him  but  Returned  it  not  again. 


ACCOUNT  OF  PROCEEDINGS  IN  COURT. 

The  following  is  an  exact  Copy  of  a  Paper  found  amongst  this  Collection  without  any 
name  or  date  bo  that  it  is  impossible  to  assert  which  of  the  indicted  persons  it  was. 
[Do  Simitikre.] 

Wat  ge  passeerd  is  alsik  voor  de  ^e?'^*kwam 

my  wierd  een  geschrift  voor  geleese 

ik  antwoorde  dat  ik  het  niet  verstaan  kon  en  vertogt 
nee  taalman 

Stefanus  ^  zeyde  dat  ik  beschuldigh  wierd  van  een  J^i/ef " 
en  dat  ik  maar  giltj  '^  oi-  not  te  segge  hadde  waer 
toe  zy  my  met  alle  man  Sogtete  persuadeere. 


312  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

ik  antwoorde  dat  my  niet  Schuldig  kost  kenne  in  een 
Saak  daer  Ek  van  de  Koning  en  zyn  Raade 
Dankelyk  voor  vrygekend  was 

Zy  begonne  met  een  groote  konfusy  te  roepe  dat  ik 
Engels  zonde  Spreeke  en  verweete  my  elk  het  syne 

ik  versogt  weeder  een  taalman  en  vroeg  teegens  Avien 
dat  ik  most  spreeke  of  pleyte,  en  dat  ik  gereed  was 
haar  alle  te  antwoorde  Zeggende  datse  liaar  be- 
hoorde  te  Scliaame  datse  een  spot  maakte  van 
haar  eyg  Tcoert"  en  dat  het  maar  een  Speultie  voor 
haar  Scheen  een  men  voor  zyn  lyf  te  treye""  of  om 
hals  te  brengen. 

De  Juts^  vroeg  wat  ik  geseijd  had 

Dog  wierd  door  Kortland  ^  heel  kwaad  aardig  vals  en 
vei-draagd  vertaald 

Zy  zeyde  ik  most  my  aan  de  Barmhartigheyd  van  de 
Coert''  oovergegeeve  hebbe 

ik  antwoorde  dat  ik  geen  barmhartigheyd  zoeke  — 
wildedaar  ik  wel  wist  dase  niet  en  was  hier  wast 
kruyst  hem,  kruyst  hem,  ik  zey  dat  ik  dat  van  te 
vore  wel  ge  weete  hadde 

Klerk^  viel  met  geweld  op  myn  aan  taste  naar  zyn 
deegen  dreygde  my  te  doorstate  :  ik  Rokte  de 
borst  oopeen  Zeyde  dat  hy  een  houwerd^  was  dathy 
niet  dorst  dat  hem  en  kinde  meuletie  beeter  als  de 
deege  paste 

EXPLANATIONS. 

*  Court,  in  Dutch  een  Hof  or  more  properly  een 
gerecht  Hof. 

^  Stephanus  Van  Cortland,  one  of  the  Judges. 

"  Riot,  in  Dutch  Ongebondenheijt. 

^  guilty  or  not  guilty,  in  Dutch  schnldig  of  niet 
scliuldig. 

^  to  try  for  his  life,  in  Dutch  iemants  over  een 
liaalszaak  te  recJit  Stellen. 

^  Judge,  in  Dutch  eenRecliter. 

^  Klerk  or  Clerk,  in  Dutch  KlerTc  ofte  Secretaris. 

^  Coward  in  Dutch,  een  Bloodaard. 


ADMINISTRATION    OF   LEISLER.  313 

Translation  of  the  foregoii.g  by  S.  Alofsen,  Esq. 

Of  what  passed  when  I  came  before  the  Court.^ 

A  ]3aper  was  read  to  me. 

I  answered  that  I  could  not  understand  it,  and  asked 
for  an  interpreter. 

Stefaaus''  said  that  I  was  accused  of  a  riot,"  and 
that  I  had  only  to  say  guilty  or  not  guilty,*  and  they  all 
tried  to  pei'suade  me  thereto. 

I  answered  that  I  could  not  acknowledge  myself 
guilty  in  a  case  in  which  I  had  probably  been  acquitted 
by  the  King  and  his  Council. 

They  began  to  cry  out  in  great  confusion  that  I 
should  speak  English,  and  every  one  of  them  reproached 
me. 

I  again  desired  an  interpreter,  and  asked  to  whom 
I  had  to  address  myself  or  to  plead,  and  that  I  was 
ready  to  answer  them  all,  saying  that  they  ought  to  be 
ashamed  of  themselves  that  they  made  a  mock  of  their 
own  Court,  and  that  to  them  it  only  seemed  to  be  a 
sport  to  try^  a  man  for  his  life  or  kill  him. 

The  Judge^  asked  what  I  had  said. 

But  this  Kortland^  translated  in  a  very  mischievous, 
false  and  perverted  manner. 

They  said  I  ought  to  have  submitted  myself  to  the 
mercy  of  the  Court. 

I  answered  that  I  did  not  wish  to  seek  for  mercy, 
because  I  well  knew  that  it  was  not  here — here  it  was 
crucify  him  crucify  him.  I  said  that  I  had  already  been 
aware  of  this  before. 

The  Clerk"  violently  seized  me  grasping  his  sword 
and  threatening  to  stab  me :  I  bared  my  breast  and  said 
he  was  a  Coward,^  that  he  dared  not,  that  a  child's  play- 
thing suited  him  better  than  a  sword. 

EXPLANATIONS. 

*  Court,  in  Dutch  eeii  Hof^  etc,     (Here  Court  means 
een  Gerechts-Hof.) 
^  Stephanus,  <fe? 


314  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

"  Riot,  in  Dutch  Oncjehondenlieid.  (Here  Riot  means 
Muitery.) 

^  Guilty  or  not  Guilty,  etc. 

^  To  try  for  his  life,  in  Dutch  iemant  (not  as  in  the 
MS.  iemants)  over^  etc. 

^  Judge,  etc. 

^  Klerk  or  Clerk,  in  Dutch  Klefh  ofte  Secretaris.  The 
word  is  GelieimscliryveT  \  but  this  is  obsolete,  and  we 
now  say  Griffier. 

^  Coward,  in  Dutch  een  Bloodaard. 


AFFIDAVIT    OF    GEORGE   DOLSTONE. 

George  Dolstone  of  the  Province  of  New  York  in 
America,  marriner  aged  thi-ee  and  thirty  years  or  there- 
aboute  maketh  oathe  that  he  this  deponent  did  arrive  at 
New  York  afores^  from  Bai'bados  about  a  day  or  two 
after  y®  revolution  there  when  this  Deponent  found  the 
Inhabitants  in  armes  and  in  Possession  of  the  Fort,  and 
this  depon*  being  a  housekeeper  was  required  to  watch 
in  y®  s*^  Fort  in  Capt.  De  Peyster's  Comp^,  which  accord- 
ingly he  did  and  this  depon*  saith  that  y*"  Capt"^  of 
y"  militia  did  command  in  y^  s^  Fort  by  Turns  while 
this  depon*  was  at  home  he  some  few  days  after  sayling 
again  for  Barbadoes  from  whence  he  returned  back  to 
New  York  the  third  of  December,  1690:  when  Capt° 
Leisler  commanded  in  chief,  having  been  appointed  by 
the  Committee  or  general  assembly  in  this  depones 
absence,  with  the  consent  and  appi-obation  of  the  inhabit- 
ants and  this  deponent  saith  that  he  was  present  &  did 
see  the  s*^  Capt"  Leisler  proclaime  their  Maj""*  King 
William  and  Queen  Mary  and  the  s*^  Leisler  did  fortifie 
ye  gd  Pqj.^  <;^jj(J  q\^^j  ^hich  till  that  time  were  I'uinous 
and  did  also  provide  in  all  respects  for  the  safety  and 
defence  of  the  Countrey  much  better  than  this  depon* 
ever  knew  done  in  the  time  of  the  three  preceding 
Governours  And  further  saith  that  the  said  Capt"  Leis- 
ler did  raise  and  send  a  sufficient  number  of  souldiers 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  315 

with  Stores  and  Provisions  for  the  succour  of  Albany 
and  the  northern  parts  of  the  province  against  the 
French  from  whom  many  people  had  fled  for  their  pre- 
servation to  New  Yorke,  and  this  depon*  further  saith 
that  there  were  several  meetings  of  y^  s*^  generall  assem- 
bly during  the  govei-nraent  of  the  s*^  Cap*  Leisler  which 
did  grant  to  their  Maj*'f*  several  taxes  for  y®  defense 
of  y*  government,  part  whereof  was  paid  by  this  depon' 
and  was  well  approved  by  the  well  affected  part  of  the 
inhabitants  and  further  saith  that  in  y^  months  of  July 
and  August  there  came  intelligence  to  New  York  that 
a  French  fleet  was  upon  y*'  Coast  and  had  taken  Block 
Island  and  two  prizes,  whereupon  y^  s''  Cap*.°  Leisler  did 
immediately  fitt  out  four  vessels  well  manned  and  pro- 
vided with  all  things  necessary  to  fight  the  s'^  French 
fleet  &  to  secure  the  coast  and  this  depon*  saith  that 
y^  s**  Cap*  Leisler  did  continue  Comander  in  Chief  with 
great  respectt  from  the  people  in  general  untill  the  later 
end  of  January,  1690  :  when  Capt""  Rich'^  Ligoldsby  ar- 
rived there  with  some  souldiers  from  England,  who  some 
days  after  his  arrival  did  send  a  Officer  as  this  deponent 
heard  to  demand  possession  of  the  s*^  Fort  from  Capt° 
Leisler,  whereupon  the  s*^  Capt"  Leisler  did  send  Mr.  de 
la  Noy  then  Ma^-or  of  the  City  &  Mr.  Milborne  to 
waite  upon  y^  s**  Capt"  Ingoldesby  to  see  his  orders,  this 
depon*  being  then  on  board  the  s^  Cap*  Ingoldesby's 
ship,  and  this  deponent  did  heare  the  s*^  Mr.  de  la  Noy 
&  Mr.  Milborne  offer  the  s"^  Capt"  Ingoldsby  from  Capt° 
Leisler  all  sorts  of  accommodations  for  himself,  his  offi- 
cers and  souldiers  which  he  refused  and  declared  that 
he  would  continue  on  board  till  the  other  ships  that 
were  expected  did  arrive  in  case  he  should  not  have 
y**  possession  of  the  Foi-t,  and  further  saith  that  he  saw 
several  people  who  had  opposed  the  revolution  &  were 
disaffected  come  on  board  the  said  ship  and  sometime 
after  y®  said  Ingoldesby  landed  with  his  souldiers  and 
marched  into  the  city  &  tooke  possession  of  the  Town 
Hall  where  they  kept  guard  and  from  that  time  did  hin- 
der Capt"  Leisler   and   the  Burghers  from   going  the 


316  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

rounds  &  keeping  watch  in  the  City :  and  this  deponent 
saith  that  the  said  Capt?  Leisler  did  publish  a  Proclama- 
tion &  sent  the  Constables  from  house  to  house  requiring 
the  people  to  give  good  reception  and  entertainment  to 
the  s*^  officers  &  souldiers  but  y®  s'^  Capt°  Ingoldesby  be- 
ing joined  by  several  disaffected  persons  did  issue  forth 
warrants  Commanding  y®  Inhabitants  to  take  amies  & 
to  assist  him  whereupon  severall  hunderd  of  men  did 
Joyne  him  and  the  s'^  Capt"  Ingoldesby  beseiged  y®  s^ 
fo]'t  &  planted  greate  guns  against  it  on  several  batteries 
and  did  block  up  most  of  the  streets  leading  to  y®  s*^ 
f  u't  and  did  forbid  all  persons  from  Carrying  any  sort 
of  provision  into  y®  s'^  fort,  and  this  dep^  further  saith 
that  he  was  compelled  by  y®  s^  Capt°  Ingoldesby's  order 
to  take  up  armes  and  after  to  be  a  gunner  in  a  battery 
of  eight  guns  against  y®  s*^  fort :  and  this  deponent  saith 
that  a  boat  with  men  coming  from  Long  Island  to  the 
Fort  the  s**  Cap^  Ingoldsby  one  Mr.  Symes  his  bi'other 
in  law  and  an  officer  in  one  of  the  Companies  with  order 
to  the  said  battery  to  load  one  of  their  best  guns  with 
Ball  and  sinke  y^  s^  boat  if  they  could  and  immediately 
thereupon  fired  at  the  s*^  boat  &  forced  her  to  return  to 
y®  8*^  Long  Island,  which  was  the  first  shot  that  was 
made  on  either  side  and  afterwards  from  the  same  bat- 
tery they  fired  at  a  boat  which  was  sent  from  the  s*^  fort  & 
wounded  one  of  the  men,  and  did  after  the  return  of 
y®  s*^  boat  to  the  fort  fire  against  the  fort  with  great 
violence  for  several  hours  both  with  great  and  small 
shot,  and  this  depon^  further  saith  that  the  guns  of 
y®  fort  might  easily  have  battered  down  y^  town  and 
destroyed  most  of  the  men  against  it.  But  y®  s*^  Capt" 
Leisler  as  this  depon*  hath  been  told  and  believes  gave 
order  that  they  should  not  fire  to  do  any  hurt  and  fur- 
ther saith  that  three  men  killed  and  five  wounded  by 
the  accidental  firing  of  a  gun  in  one  of  Capt?  Ingoldes- 
by* men's  battery  against  the  fort  and  that  one  other 
man  was  killed  but  whether  by  shot  from  the  fort  or 
by  Capt°  Ingoldesby's  party  this  depon'^  knoweth  not 
and  this  depon'  further  saith  that  some  of  Capt°  Ingolds- 


ADMINISTRATION   OF    LEISLER.  317 

hy's  men  having  heen  taken  hy  Capt°  Leisler's  men  as 
they  were  going  the  rounds  for  not  answering  and  affront- 
ing the  gnard  the  s*^  Cap*  Ingoldesby  discoursing  there- 
of in  this  depon'*  hearing  did  say  that  y^  s^  Cap*  Leisler 
should  die  for  y®  same  or  he  would  die  for  him,  and 
further  saith  that  Colo.  Sloughter  arrived,  at  N  York  on 
the  nineteenth  of  March  last  towards  the  evening  and 
sometime  after  Capt°  Ingoldesby  was  sent  to  demand  y* 
Fort  whereupon  Cap*"  Leisler  did  send  Mr.  De  la  Noy 
and  Mr.  Milborne  to  be  informed  whether  CoP  Slough- 
ter were  really  arrived,  and  if  he  were  to  wait  upon  him 
&  offer  him  possession  of  y^  Fort  But  the  s*^  M*"  De  la 
Noy  &  Mr.  Milborne  wore  fortwith  imprisoned  by  order 
of  y®  s*^  Col°  Sloughter  not  being  heard  speake  and  this 
depon*  saith  that  very  early  the  next  morning  the  s*^  Cap* 
Leisler  did  write  a  letter  to  Col°  Sloughter  to  come  and 
receive  the  foi't  &  accordingly  he  did  deliver  up  the 
same  upon  the  twentieth  of  March  last  of  his  own  accord 
and  without  any  Compulsion  of  the  burghers  who  were 
in  garrison  who  layd  down  their  arms  by  the  order  of 
the  said  Cap*  Leisler  and  this  deponent  saith  the  s**  Cap*° 
Leisler  and  divers  others  were  made  prisonners  and  the 
burghers  disarmed  and  the  s*^  Capt°  Leisler  M'"  Milborne 
and  divers  others  were  afterwards  indicted,  for  preten- 
ded murther  and  high  treason.  Whereupon  the  s*^  Cap* 
Leisler  being  arraigned  did  oftentimes  desire  to  be  in- 
formed by  the  Court  before  he  should  plead  to  the  in- 
dictment whether  y^  authority  by  which  he  had  acted 
by  as  commander  in  chief  was  lawfull  or  not  to  which 
the  Court  refused  to  give  a  direct  answer  requiring  him 
to  plead  which  he  not  doing  they  caused  him  to  be 
bound  and  pinnioned  and  afterwards  pronounced  sentence 
of  death  against  him  which  was  accordingly  executed  in 
this  deponent's  sight.  And  this  deponent  further  saith 
that  great  number  of  persons  did  petition  y®  s^  Col*' 
Slorghter  to  reprieve  y®  s^  Capt"  Leisler  and  other  con- 
demned persons  and  this  depon*  heard  that  several  were 
molested  for  so  doing,  And  this  depon*  further  saith 
th.'it  the  s**  M""  Leisler  was  a  merchant  of  good  Estate 


318  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

reall  and  personal!  &  bad  very  considerable  dealings  "be- 
fore y^  s"^  Kevolution,  and  does  verily  believe  that  he 
expended  a  greate  deal  of  his  own  proper  money  iu 
their  Maj*'.*'*  service  for  the  defence  of  the  said  province, 
and  more  saith  not. 

(Signed)  George  Dolstone 

Jurat  19°  FeV"  1691° 

coram  me  magro  Cancell :    S.  Keck. 


AFFIDAVIT    OF    THOMAS    DAWSON. 

Thomas  Dawson  of  the  parish  of  St  Paul  Shadwell 
in  the  county  of  Middlesex,  marriner,  aged  nine  and 
thirty  years  or  thereabouts,  maketh  oath,  that  he  this 
depon*.  on  or  about  the  eight  and  twentyith  day  of 
January  did  arrive  with  Capt°  Richard  Ingoldesby  in 
the  ship.  Beaver  near  to  the  City  of  New  York  and 
presently  after  Stephanus  Van  Cortlandt  and  many 
other  persons  came  on  board  the  said  Ship  who  made 
Complaints  against  Capt°  Leisler  and  desired  the  said 
Capt"  Ingoldesby  to  land  with  his  Souldiers  and  there- 
upon they  would  raise  men  and  join  him  and  force  or 
pull  Capt°  Leisler  out  of  the  fort,  and  thereupon  the 
said  Capt"  Ingoldesby  did  send  Lieut.  Shanks  and  Mr. 
Simmes  brother  in  law  to  Capt°  Ingoldesby  to  demand 
the  fort  from  Capt°  Leisler  whereunto  the  said  Capt" 
Leisler  made  answer  that  in  case  he  had  any  commission 
or  orders  from  his  Majesty  or  Colonel  Sloughter  he 
would  forthwith  deliver  the  same  but  without  such 
orders  he  could  not,  and  the  said  Capt°  Leisler  did  very 
kindly  invite  the  said  Capt°  Ingoldesby  to  come  on 
shore  with  his  Souldiers  and  did  offer  him  the  use  of 
his  own  houses  for  himself  and  officers  and  the  houses 
of  the  burgers  for  the  soldiers  with  the  best  accommoda- 
tion the  Country  could  afford  until  the  arrival  of  the 
Governour  but  the  said  Capt"  Ingoldesby  refused  the 
same  and  continued  on  board  about  six  or  seven  days  till 
Capt°  Tregauy  arrived  with  more  soldiers  from  England 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  319 

and  in  the  mean  time  the  said  Ingoldeshy  did  send  a 
shore  powder  &  ammunition  to  the  people  who  had 
promised  to  joyne  him  against  Leisler  and  they  being 
ready  the  said  Ingoldesby  and  Capt"  Bradshaw  with 
all  their  soldiers  did  land  &  march  into  the  said  Gity  of 
New  York  and  this  deponent  hath  been  credibly  in- 
formed they  did  besiege  the  said  fort  which  he  the  rather 
believes  because  he  saw  divers  great  guns  planted 
against  it  and  this  deponent  further  saith  That  he  was 
ordered  by  the  captain  of  the  said  ship  to  move  (sic) 
her  head  and  stern  against  the  said  block-House  to  bat- 
ter the  same,  and  afterwards  there  came  about  fifteene 
men  on  board,  who  said  they  were  sent  to  fire  against 
the  Block  house  and  that  day  the  said  Block  House  was 
surrendered  :  and  more  deposeth  not. 

(Signed)  Thomas  Dawson". 

Jurat  19  Feb«,  1691°, 
coram  me  magfro  Cancell.    S.  Keck. 


AFFIDAVIT   OF   THOMAS   JEFFERS. 

Thomas  Jeffers  of  the  province  of  New  York  in 
America  aged  thirty  years  or  thereabouts  maketh  oath 
that  he  this  deponent  in  the  month  of  November  anno 
Dni  1690:  did  arrive  at  the  city  of  New  York  with  a 
Briganteen  whereof  he  was  master  from  Antegoa  with 
a  letter  from  General  Codrington  to  Capt°  Jacob  Leis- 
ler then  Commander  in  chief  of  New  York  at  which 
time  the  s*^  Capt"  Leisler  was  raising  of  men  &  making 
provision  of  ammunition  <fe  necessary  stores  to  send  for 
the  relief  of  Albany  which  was  in  great  apprehension 
of  being  invaded  by  the  French  so  that  great  numbei- 
of  people  withdrew  themselves  out  of  those  parts  to 
New  York  and  this  depon'  saith  that  the  s^  Capt"  Leis- 
ler was  acknowledged  and  owned  by  the  inhabitants  to 
be  Commander  in  Chief  of  tlie  said  Pi'ovince  and  did 
thei'ein  behave  himself  to  the  general  satisfiiction,  con- 
tinually  taking   care  of  their  Maj'*"'*  interest  and  the 


320  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

safety  of  the  country  for  whicli  end  the  said  Capt°  Leis- 
ler  did  very  well  fortify  the  Fort  and  City  of  New  York 
so  that  y^  same  remained  in  great  peace  and  quietness 
till  about  y®  later  end  of  January,  1690,  when  Capf" 
Eich''  Ingoldesby  arrived  there  with  some  Souldiers  from 
England  who  thereupon  as  this  depon*  is  informed  and 
believes  did  send  to  the  said  Capt"  Leisler  requiring  the 
possession  of  the  fort  upon  which  the  said  Capf"  Leisler 
did  send  Major  Milborne  aboai'd  the  ship  where  the  s^ 
Ingoldesby  was  to  wait  upon 'him  and  see  his  orders  for 
I'eceiviug  the  said  foi-t  And  upon  the  said  Milborne's 
return  this  depon*  heard  him  declare  that  the  s*^  Capt° 
Ingoldesby  had  no  orders  to  demand  the  possession  of 
the  fort  But  had  only  a  commission  to  be  Capt°  of  a 
foot  company  and  this  deponent  afterwards  heard  the 
said  Capt"  Leisler  declare  to  the  same  purpose  &  there- 
fore that  he  could  not  with  safety  surrender  the  fort 
before  the  arrival  of  Col°  Sloughter  or  orders  from  their 
Maj^'f  and  in  case  of  either  he  would  readily  yeld  up 
the  same  and  this  deponent  further  saith  that  the  said 
Capt"  Leisler  did  offer  all  manner  of  accommodation  for 
the  good  reception  and  entertainment  of  the  s*^  Capt 
Ingoldesby  and  the  soldiers  and  for  that  purpose  did 
publish  a  proclamation  &  did  invite  the  s**  Capf"  Ingold- 
esby &  his  officers  to  lodge  in  his  own  houses  but  the 
said  Capt"  Ingoldesby  refused  the  same  and  continued 
aboai'd  about  seven  days  during  which  time  divers  per- 
sones  (who  as  this  deponent  was  informed  opposed  the 
revolution  and  after  that  the  government  of  the  s^ 
Capt"  Leisler)  did  repaire  on  board  to  the  said  Capf  In- 
goldesby who  thereupon  landed  with  his  soldiers  and 
drew  them  into  the  City  Hall  and  there  kept  guard  be- 
ing joined  with  a  great  many  men  in  ai-ms  some  of  which 
were  papists  and  many  french,  and  the  s*^  Capf  In- 
goldesby did  hinder  and  obstruct  the  said  Capt"  Leisler 
and  his  men  from  going  the  rounds  &  keeping  guards 
in  the  City  and  the  said  Ingoldesby  did  afterwards 
hold  a  Councell  and  thereupon  did  beseige  the  Fort  and 
planted  divers  great  guns  against  it  about  which  time 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  321 

this  deponent  went  with  a  letter  from  Capt"  Leisler  to 
CoP  Sloughter  afores^  who  was  then  supposed  to  be  at  the 
Island  of  Bermudas  but  was  sailed  thence  before  this 
depon*.'  arrival  there  which  letter  was  delivered  to  the 
Governour  of  Bermudas,  and  this  depon!  saith  that  upon 
his  return  to  New  York  being  about  y^  middle  of  Aj^ril 
he  found  Col°  Sloughter  there  and  the  s*^  Capt°  Leisler 
M""  Milborne  and  several  others  in  prison  under  the  con- 
demnation of  death  for  some  pretended  high  treason 
and  this  depon'  further  saith  that  he  did  see  the  said 
Capt"  Leisler  &  M'  Milborne  put  to  death  being  first 
hanged  and  then  their  heads  cut  off:  and  at  the  place 
of  Execution  this  depon*  did  heare  the  s^  Capt.  Leis- 
ler declare  his  innocency  and  that  he  died  a  martyr 
for  King  William.  And  this  deponent  further  saith 
that  he  being  in  a  house  in  New  York  where  a  min- 
ister was  taking  subscriptions  to  a  petition  to  be  pre- 
sented to  the  said  Col!  Sloughter  for  the  reprieve  of 
the  said  CaptP  Leisler  and  others  condemned  persons 
Some  officers  belonging  to  the  said  Coll  Sloughter  did 
seize  upon  the  said  minister  and  secure  him  as  a  pris- 
onner  for  doing  the  same.  And  further  saith  that  the 
said  Capt"  Leisler  was  a  merchant  of  a  very  consider- 
able estate  &  dealing  before  the  s*^  revolution  and  be- 
lieves he  expended  considerable  sums  of  his  own  proper 
money  in  their  Maj*!*"^  service  for  the  preservacon  of  the 
said  province  of  New  York  and  further  doth  not 
depose. 

(Signed)  Thomas  Jeffees. 

Jurat  19°  Feb^  1691° 
coram  me  magro  Cancell.    S.  Keck. 


affidavit    of   JACOB    TELLER. 

Jacob  Teller  of  the  Province  of  New  York  in  Amer- 
ica late  Commander  of  a  ship  aged  seven  and  thirty 
years  or  thereabouts  maketh  oath,  that  about  the  month 
of  September,  1690,  Capt.  William  Mason  and  Cap*" 
Francis  Goderis  by  virtue  of  a  Commission  from  Capt° 
21 


322  DOCUMENTS  KELATING  TO  THE 

Jacob  Leisler  deceased  who  then  commanded  as  Lieut* 
Governor  in  the  province  of  New  York  did  seize  and 
take  from  the  subjects  of  the  French  King  six  ships 
which  this  Depon*  saw  brought  into  the  port  of  "N'ew 
York,  and  were  afterwards  condemned  in  a  Court  of  Ad- 
miralty constituted  by  a  Commission  from  the  said  Capt° 
Jacob  Leisler  as  lawful  prizes  and  further  saith  that  some 
short  time  after  there  was  a  publick  vendue  held  for  the 
sale  of  the  s*^  ships  where  this  deponent  was  present  at 
which  time  one  of  the  said  ships  then  called  the  St. 
Pierre  and  since  the  beare,  was  bought  by  Mr.  Edward 
Antell  in  the  behalf  of  Capt"  Jacob  Mauritz  as  the  high- 
est bidder  for  the  sum  of  five  hundred  pounds  or  there- 
abouts which  said  ship  this  deponent  did  see  delivered 
to  the  said  Captain  Manritz  by  Capf"  Goderis  and  other 
persons  authorized  for  that  purpose,  and  doth  verily  be- 
lieve that  the  said  Capf"  Mauritz  did  pay  the  said 
summe  of  five  hundred  pounds  for  the  s^  ship  and  fur- 
ther saith  that  some  short  time  after  this  deponent  and 
Mr.  Isaac  de  Riemer  did  buy  another  of  the  said  six 
ships  formerly  called  the  St.  Maria  and  afterwards  the 
Mason  and  since  the  Catharine  for  which  they  paid 
seven  hundred  and  fifteen  pounds  Current  money  of 
New  York  which  ship  was  delivered  to  this  deponent 
and  the  s*^  De  Riemerwho  enjoyed  the  same  according- 
ly, and  this  deponent  afterwards  went  a  voyage  with 
the  s^  ship  from  New  York  to  Barbadoes  and  came 
thence  to  England  where  this  deponent  sold  the  said 
ship  to  M''  Rich^  Starkey  merch*  in  London  for  the  sum 
of  eight  hundred  and  forty  pounds  and  this  deponent  fur- 
ther saith  that  one  William  Baker  a  master  imployed  by 
Mr.  Frederic  Flipsen  of  New  York  did  acquaint  this  de- 
ponent that  the  said  Flipsen  gave  him  order  to  off'er  seven 
hundred  pounds  on  his  behalf  for  the  ship  bought  by 
this  deponent  as  afores*^  and  said  that  the  rest  of  the 
said  six  ships  were  sold  and  disposed  of  to  Capt"  de 
Peister  and  other  persons  and  that  one  other  ship  was 
taken  from  the  French  by  Cap*  George  Bullon  and 
brought  into  the  port  of  New  Yorke  and  was  there  also 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  323 

condemned  and  sold  to  the  said  Mr.  Peister  and  part- 
ners &  is  now  Coinauded  by  Cap'  Robert  Sinclair,  for 
all  which  said  ships  the  Kings  tenth  was  paid  in  the 
time  of  y"  Government  of  Cap'  Leisler  as  this  deponent 
has  heard  and  more  saith  not.  Jacob  Teller. 

Jurat  23die  Feb'^  1691  coram  me  Ad.  Ostley. 


AFFIDAVIT  OF   BOUDEWIJN    DE   "WIDT. 

Boudewijn  DeWidt  of  the  province  of  New  York  in 
America,  Chirnrgien  aged  six  and  thirty  years  or  there- 
abouts maketh  oath,  that  he  this  deponent  was  present 
in  the  City  Hall  at  New  Yorke  when  Mr.  Jacob  Leisler 
and  Mr.  Jacob  Milborne  both  deceased  were  arraigned 
upon  an  indictment  or  accusation  for  some  pretended 
Treason  murder  &  felony,  before  Joseph  Dudley  S"" 
Robei't  Robinson,  Thomas  Johnson,  John  Lawrence, 
Jasper  Hicks,  Rich*^  Ligoldesby  and  several  others  who 
sat  as  Judges  and  the  s*^  M'"  Leisler  and  M""  Milborne 
being  required  to  plead  thereunto  in  order  for  their  Try- 
als.  The  s"^  M""  Leisler  and  M""  Milborne  did  desire  to 
know  of  the  said  Judges  (as  this  deponent  was  credi- 
bly informed  by  divers  persons  who  were  present)  whe- 
ther they  did  allow  that  the  authority  whereby  y^  said 
Leisler  and  Milborne  had  acted  in  the  government  of 
the  said  Province  was  lawfuU  or  not.  To  which  Question 
the  said  Judges  refused  to  answer,  and  y^  said  M""  Leis- 
ler and  M*"  Milborne  did  thereupon  declare  that  if  y^ 
said  authority  w.is  disallowed  sevei-al  of  the  said  Jud- 
ges being  their  enemies  they  therefore  could  not  plead 
to  y®  said  Indictment  and  this  deponent  was  afterwards 
present  in  Court  and  did  hear  y**  s*^  M"  Leisler  and  M"" 
Milborne  for  y^  reason  aforesaid  appeal  from  y®  said 
Judges  to  the  King  and  Queen's  majesty  and  desired  to 
be  sent  for  England  to  answer  what  could  be  objected 
against  them,  but  this  deponent  saith  that  notwithstand- 
ing the  said  appeal  they  were  afterwards  condenmed  to 
suffer  death  and  were  put  to  death  accordingly,  and  fur- 
ther saith  that  by  reason  of  the  disorders  in  ye  s*^  prov- 


324  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

ince  after  ye  arrival  of  Capt"  Iiigolclesby  and  Col° 
Slaughter  great  numbers  of  y®  Inhabitants  did  leave  the 
same  &  withdrew  into  other  parts,  and  also  saith  that 
Capt.°  John  Hendrick  de  Bru3m  this  deponent's  father 
in  law,  divers  times  informed  this  deponent  that  after 
the  revolution  was  made  &  their  pres*  maj*'®^  were  pro- 
claimed in  N  Yorke  Col°  Nicholaes  Bayard  one  of  the 
present  council  there  did  write  a  letter  to  him  &  Capt. 
de  Peister  advising  them  not  to  be  concerned  in  y*  s^ 
Revolution  for  that  King  James  and  his  authority  was 
in  full  power,  a  copy  of  which  letter  this  depon*  has 
been  informed  was  sent  by  Capt"'  Leisler  to  England  to 
be  represented  to  the  Kings  majesty  and  more  saith 
not.  BouDEwijN  De  Widt. 

Jurat  23die  Feb'^  cor  me  Ad.  Ostley. 


AFFIDAVIT   OF    ISAAC   DE    RIEMER. 

Isaac  de  Riemer  of  the  City  of  New  York  in  Amer- 
ica, merchant  aged  six  and  twenty  years  or  thereabouts 
maketh  oath  that  he  was  born  in  the  s*^  city  of  New 
York  and  that  on  or  about  the  last  day  of  May,  1689 
This  deponent  then  being  a  Commission  Officer  of  a 
militia  Company  The  Burghers  and  Inhabitants  of  the 
said  City  having  extraordinary  apprehensions  of  danger 
did  take  arms  and  did  enter  into  and  seize  y®  fort  there  not 
being  to  the  best  of  this  depon'*  Judgement  above  forty 
persons  who  did  not  Joine  therein,  and  that  upon  the 
seizure  of  the  said  Fort  Captain  Lodwick  and  other 
militia  officers  did  enter  thereinto  and  the  said  Captain 
Lodwick  was  sent  by  the  people  to  demand  the  keys  of 
the  fort  from  Capt.  Nicholson,  who  was  at  that  time  in 
the  City  and  did  accordingly  deliver  y®  s*^  Keys  to  the 
said  Capt"  Lodwick  whereupon  the  said  inhabitants  did 
declare  for  the  Prince  of  Orange  and  the  Protestant 
power  then  reigning  in  England,  and  that  Mr.  Abraham 
De  Peyster  another  militia  captain  had  the  command  of 
the  guard  in  the  said  fort  that  day  and  was  that  night 


ADMINISTRATION    OF   LEISLER.  825 

relieved  by  the  said  Capt"  Lodwick  and  further  saith 
That  Capt"  Jacob  Leisler  was  also  a  Captain  of  the 
militia  and  came  into  the  s**  Fort  that  day  and  that  for 
about  three  or  four  weeks  the  Captains  of  the  militia 
did  by  equal  turns  command  and  keep  guard  in  the  s*^ 
fort  tiie  said  Capt  Nicholson  some  short  time  aftei-  the 
said  seizure  thereof  having  left  the  City  and  further 
saith  that  during  the  said  time  the  said  Capt°  Leisler 
having  in  his  turne  the  command  of  the  said  fort  the 
happy  news  of  their  present  Majestys  Accession  to  the 
Crowne  did  arrive  whei-eupon  the  same  Capt"  Leisler 
forthwith  proclaimed  their  Maj"!'^  King  William  <fe 
Queen  Mary  and  caused  y"  same  to  be  done  in  other 
parts  of  the  province  and  that  shortly  after  a  general! 
Committee  of  the  representatives  of  the  inhabitants  of 
the  said  province  was  chosen  and  did  assemble  in  New 
York  aforesaid  to  consider  and  provide  for  the  security 
thereof,  which  committee  did  appoint  and  commission- 
ate  the  s''  Capt"  Leisler  (as  this  deponent  hath  heard 
and  verily  believe)  to  be  Commander  of  the  s*^  Fort  till 
further  order  from  their  Maj*'^^  and  accordingly  the  s** 
Ca})t"  Leisler  had  the  possession  thereof  and  was  ap- 
proved by  the  generality  of  the  people  and  thereupon 
the  s*^  Capt°  Leisler  did  very  well  fortify  the  fort  and 
City  and  provided  ammunitions  &,  Stores  and  made 
other  necessary  preparations  for  their  .defence  to 
the  great  satisfaction  of  all  the  people.  And  this 
deponent  saith  that  the  said  General  Committee  being 
reassembled  and  they  finding  it  necessary  for  their 
Maj*'^*  service  and  the  safety  of  the  country  they  did 
likewise  appoint  and  commissionate  the  said  Capt"  Leis- 
ler to  be  Commander  in  Chief  of  the  whole  province  of 
New  York  till  further  orders  from  their  Maj"/*  and  ac- 
cordingly he  had  the  Government  of  the  said  province 
with  the  general  good  liking  of  the  people.  xVnd  several 
months  after  one  Mr  Riggs  did  arrive  from  England 
with  a  letter  from  his  majesty  directed  to  Francis  Nich- 
olson, Esq.  Lieut.  Governor  and  in  his  absence  to  such 
as  for  the  time  being   take  care  for  administering  the 


326  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

laws  and  preserving  y^  peace  in  the  s*^  province  or  to 
that  effect,  and  the  said  Capt"  Nicholson  being  long  be- 
fore departed  from  the  said  country  the  said  Mr.  Riggs 
the  next  day  after  his  coming  to  the  city  of  New  York, 
went  into  the  said  foi't  to  Capt"  Leisler,  and  immediate- 
ly after  Mr.  Frederic  Flipsen  and  Stephanus  Van  Court- 
landt  came  there  also,  this  deponent  being  the  (sic) 
present  whereupon  it  was  disputed  between  the  s"^  Capf* 
Leisler  and  the  s*^  Mr  Flipsen  and  M""  Van  Courtlandt 
before  the  s*^  M'"  Riggs  to  whom  the  said  letter  did 
properly  belong  and  after  the  debate  and  Consideration 
thereof  the  said  M""  Riggs  said  to  the  said  Capt°  Leisler 
that  if  he  did  demand  the  King's  letter  and  would  give 
him  a  receipt  for  the  same,  he  would  deliver  it  to  him 
and  accordingly  the  same  was  done  without  any  force 
or  compulsion  used  to  the  s^  M""  Riggs  and  further  saith 
that  shortly  after  a  generall  assembly  was  held  in  the 
-s*^  City  who  did  likewise  own  and  approve  the  s^  Capt 
Leisler  to  be  Commander  in  Chief  and  did  grant  a 
tax  of  three  pence  in  the  Pound  to  their  Maj"®*  and  that 
the  s*^  Capt°  Leisler  at  several  times  did  send  Souldiers,  am- 
munition, and  necessary  provisions  for  the  defence  of 
Albany  and  the  northern  parts  of  the  Pi'ovince  against 
the  French  who  had  made  great  destructions  therein 
and  that  the  s"^  Capt°  Leisler  did  upon  that  and  other 
occasions  act  in  the  office  of  Lieut  Governor  to  the  ut- 
most of  his  power  for  the  interest  of  their  present 
Maj"f*  and  the  good  of  the  country  and  further  saith 
that  about  the  month  of  July,  1690,  a  Councell  of  War 
was  held  in  the  said  City  for  the  fortifying  thereof  when 
some  persons  did  desire  the  members  of  y"  s*^  Council  of 
War  to  intercede  with  Capt°  Leisler  to  release  certain  pris- 
oners then  in  the  fort,  which  was  desired  of  him  accord- 
ingly Whereunto  the  said  Capt"  Leisler  [said]  that  if  the 
said  prisoners  would  acknowledge  the  present  govern- 
ment and  give  bond  for  their  good  behaviour  they 
should  be  released  wliereupon  some  of  the  officers  went 
and  demanded  of  the  said  prisoners  if  they  v^ould  do 
the  same  which  they  then  refused   and   afterwards  on 


ADMINISTRATION   OF   LEISLER.  327 

the  same  day  divers  persons  who  had  opposed  the  rev- 
olution declared  they  would  rise  and  take  the  prisoners 
out  and  accordingly  they  did  a  very  riotous  manner 
assemble  some  of  them  having  arms  and  went  towards 
the  fort  where  this  depou'  heard  and  believes  they  met 
Capt°  Leisler  and  assaulted  him  but  were  afterwards 
quelled  and  many  of  them  committed  to  prison  and 
prosecuted  and  fined  for  y^  s^  Riot  And  this  deponent 
likewise  saith  that  about  September,  1690  Capt°  Wil- 
liam Mason  and  Francis  Goderis  by  virtue  of  a  Com- 
mission granted  by  Capt°  Leisler  did  seize  and  take 
from  the  subjects  of  the  French  King  six  ships  which 
they  brought  into  the  port  of  New  York  where  the 
same  were  condemned  by  a  Court  of  Admiralty  held  by 
a  Commission  from  the  said  Capt"  Leisler  as  lawfuU 
prize  and  afterwards  at  a  publick  vendue  held  for  the 
sale  of  the  said  ships  (this  deponent  being  present)  M' 
Edwai'd  Antell  did  buy  one  of  the  said  ships  formerly 
called  the  St.  Piei-i-e  (as  this  depon*  heard)  and  since 
the  Beare  for  the  use  of  Capt"  Jacob  Mauritz  foi'  the 
sum  of  five  hundred  pounds  or  thereabouts  and  this 
depon*  saw  possession  of  the  said  ship  delivered  to  the 
said  Capt.°  Mauritz  by  Capt"  Gooderis  and  others  im- 
powered  thereunto  and  doth  believe  the  said  five  hun- 
dred pounds  was  really  paid  by  the  said  Capt"  Mauritz 
for  the  said  ship  and  further  saith  that  this  depon*  and 
Capt"  Jacob  Teller  did  buy  another  of  the  said  six  ships 
for  which  they  gave  seven  hundred  and  fifteen  pounds 
Current  Money  of  New  York  and  since  sold  the  same 
to  Mr.  Starkey,  Mercli*  in  London,  for  eight  hundred 
and  forty  pounds  and  this  depon'  believes  that  the 
Kings  tenth  were  paid  for  the  said  ships  at  New  York 
in  the  time  of  Capt"  Leisler's  government,  and  this 
deponent  saith  the  s'*  Capt"  Mauritz  did  repair  his  said 
ship  and  loaded  goods  on  boai-d  her  for  England  but  this 
deponent  came  shortly  after  from  New  York  and  more 
saith  not.         (Signed)  Isaac  De  Rie^ier. 

Jurat  24die  Febi-^'  1691 
coram  me  magro  Cancell.  S.  Keck. 


328  DOCUMENTS    RELATING   TO    THE 

AFFroAVIT   OF    KILT  A  AN   VAN    RENSSELAEE. 

Translated  from  the  original  in  Dutch  by  S.  Alofsen,  Esq. 

Kiliaau  van  Rensselaer  aged  about  25  years  upon 
his  oatli  taken  upon  God's  holy  Testament  declares  it  to 
be  true  and  nothing  but  the  truth — 

That  the  attestor  ai-rived  in  New  York  in  America 
in  the  month  of  May  of  the  year  1690  in  the  ship  the 
Catryn  Skipper  Jacob  Mauritz. 

That  he  then  saw  that  the  person  Jacob  Leisler  at 
that  time  was  governor  of  that  province,  and  that  as 
such  he  had  been  by  the  majority  of  the  acknowledged 
and  respected. 

That  the  attestor  also  has  seen  that  those  of  New 
York  by  order  of  the  said  Leisler  were  very  busy  in 
repairing  and  perfecting  the  defences  of  that  City 
against  the  enemy  in  which  they  continued  as  long  as 
he  Leisler  occupied  the  office  of  Governor. 

That  during  the  administration  of  the  said  Leisler 
he  caused  much  detriment  to  the  enemies  and  especially 
to  the  French  and  that  for  the  maintenance  of  city  and 
province  he  has  acted  and  acquitted  himself  as  a  brave 
(braaft)  soldier. 

That  even  upon  the  least  alarm,  which  took  place  in 
the  time  of  his  administration  (the  witness  being  there 
present)  most  of  the  militia  upon  his  order  and  com- 
mand immediately  presented  themselves  and  came  under 
arras. 

That  the  abovenamed  Governor  Leisler  considering 
the  necessities  of  the  garrison  at  Albany  as  well  of  ac- 
coutrements and  clothing  as  of  provisions  for  subsistence 
found  it  necessary  to  send  the  Mayor  Peter  de  La  Noy 
with  a  constable  to  some  of  the  Merchants  and  Inhab- 
itants of  the  City  and  to  request  them  to  supply  him 
therewith  and  temporarily  to  lend  the  King  the  funds 
necessary  for  the  same,  which  upon  the  proposed  terms 
they  refused  to  do,  but  upon  the  said  Mayor's  guaranty 
and  surety  of  payment  and  restitution  of  the  same  they 
willingly  did. 

That  the  said  Leisler  had  returned  to  the  above- 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  329 

named  Merchants  of  'New  York  many  invoices  of  goods 
which  they  had  sent  him  for  said  garrison,  because  the 
same  had  been  offered  by  them  at  too  high  a  valu- 
ation of  cost. 

That  the  above  mentioned  goods,  by  and  through 
the  intervention  of  said  Mayor  in  manner  as  above  were 
credited  by  the  said  Leisler  to  the  Merchants,  and  actu- 
ally and  in  verity  were  subsequently  sent  for  the 
service  and  use  of  the  said  Garrison  of  Albany. 

That  the  attestor  knows  this  full  well,  because  he 
himself  with  these  goods  and  provisions  sailed  from 
there  in  a  sloop  to  Albany  aforesaid,  where  the  witness 
also  saw  that  then  there  was  a  good  and  sufficient 
garrison,  that  also  at  that  time  cannon  and  a  good  quan- 
tity of  ammunition  to  defend  and  maintain  that  city 
was  being  brought  in,  that  between  five  and  six  hun- 
dred men  or  thei-eabout  were  then  in  the  city,  who 
with  those  of  the  city  and  province  paid  all  respect  and 
obedience  to  said  Leisler  until  the  arrival  of  the  so-call- 
ed Capt.°  Ingoldsby. 

That  the  said  Ingoldsby  upon  his  arrival  had  sent 
the  Collector  together  with  a  lieutenant  and  the  Ensign 
Symms  to  demand  the  fort  of  the  said  governor  Leisler, 
showing  nevertheless  not  the  slightest  order  from  His 
Majesty  or  the  Colonel  Slaughter,  whereupon  this  was 
refused  by  the  said  Leisler,  unless  they  would  first  show 
him  evidence  of  the  order  of  the  King  or  at  least  that 
of  the  governor  appointed. 

That  afterwards  the  said  Ingoldsby  having  several 
times  demanded  the  surrender  of  the  fort  the  said  Leis- 
ler had,  among  other  things,  let  him  know,  and  had  re- 
quested that  he  would  be  pleased  to  keep  peaceful  and 
quiet,  that  he  could  come  to  his  house  whei-e  he  would 
be  treated  and  dealt  with  as  a  gentleman  of  his  position, 
and  that  his  men  meanwhile  would  be  provided  with 
good  quarters  and  board  until  the  order  of  Governor 
Slaughter  should  have  arrived. 

That  the  said  Ingoldsby  refusing  to  listen  to  the  good 
propositions   and  representations   of  the   said    Leisler, 


330  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

thereupon  liad  begun  to  attack  the  said  Fort  of  New 
York  and  further  had  issued  warrants  to  enlist  men 
who  should  aid  and  assist  him  in  his  enterprize. 

That  the  said  Ingoldsby  after  he  had  picked  up  a 
number  of  people  and  had  armed  several  Papists  and 
Negroes  had  commenced  to  fire  upon  the  said  fort  from 
the  batteries  which  he  had  erected,  and  had  also  turned 
the  cannon  of  the  city  towards  the  fort. 

That  he  moreover  had  also  caused  to  be  imprisoned 
several  burghers  and  inhabitants  of  New  York,  who  re- 
fused to  enter  into  his  service  and  to  assist  him. 

That  the  aforesaid  Ingoldsby  continued  and  persisted 
in  his  hostilities,  until  Governor  Slaughter-  arrived 
there. 

That  the  said  Leisler  having  surrendered  to  the  said 
Slaughter  the  Fort  and  City  together  with  the  govern- 
ment of  the  province,  the  said  Slaughter  thereupon 
made  proclamation  of  an  act,  declaring  every  thing 
which  had  been  done  by  the  aforesaid  Leisler  unlawful, 
with  further  proclamation  that  the  said  Leisler  and  all 
who  had  proclaimed  the  King  were  traitors,  thieves, 
and  murderers. 

That  the  said  Slaughter  further  thereupon  impris- 
soned  tlie  said  Leisler  together  with  a  multitude  of 
the  principal  inhabitants. 

That  the  other  Burghers  of  the  place,  seeing  the 
wicked  proceedings  of  the  said  Slaughter  and  the  mis- 
fortune of  their  imprisoned  fellow  citizens,  through  fear 
and  menaces  fled  thence  and  left  the  province,  retiring 
elsewhere  for  their  own  security,  so  that  a  Company  be- 
fore under  the  government  of  the  aforesaid  Leisler  of 
about  one  hundred  and  twenty  men  strong  could  not 
then  muster  fifty. 

That  the  said  Slaughter  also  caused  to  be  removed 
from  the  walls  of  the  City  twenty  pieces  of  the  best  can- 
non and  sent  them  out  of  the  country  so  that  the  depo- 
nent declares  that  at  his  departure  from  there  (which 
was  upon  the  fifth  of  September  1691)  the  said  City  of 
New  York  remained  in  no  state  of  defence  w^hatever. 


ADMINISTRATION   OF   LEISLER.  331 

That  during  tbe  administration  of  Jacob  Leisler,  he 
Leisler  sent  several  Ships  to  Canada  to  do  damage  to 
the  enemy  which  had  taken  various  French  ships 
and  brought  them  in  at  New  York,  and  which  sub- 
sequently were  sold  at  public  auction  and  out  of  the 
proceeds  the  King's  tenths  had  been  paid. 

That  the  here  aforesaid  Captain  Jacob  Mauritz  In- 
habitant of  New  York  of  these  Ships  had  bought  and 
paid  for  the  ship  named  the  St.  Pierre  de  Bayone,  and 
afterwards  the  Beai-e,  and  having  repaired  the  same 
equipped  and  brought  her  into  navigable  condition  had 
freighted  her  with  various  goods  and  merchandise  to 
transport  the  same  to  England  and  Holland. 

That  the  said  Jacob  Mauritz  being  nearly  ready  to 
depart  with  said  Ship  the  said  Governor  Slaughter 
under  pretext  that  it  had  not  been  lawfully  condemned 
had  forcibly  taken  it  away  from  him  and  had  again  sold 
it  to  another  namely  Frederick  Flipsen  one  of  the 
gentlemen  of  his  council,  without  the  said  Jacob  Maur- 
itz having  in  any  way  been  reimbursed  or  paid  therefor, 
to  the  great  loss  and  ruin  of  himself  and  his  family. 

(Signed)  K.  V.  Kensselaer. 

Jurat  Septimo  Martij  Anno  Dni  169^ 

coram  me  magro  Cancell.        Ad.  Ostley. 


order  in  council  upon  the  petition  of  jacob  leisler 

(the  son). 
Copie. 

Att  the  Court  at  White  Hall  the  'Zth  of  January, 
1691. 

Cl  s^  .  Present 

^  *    '^         The  King's  most  excellent  Majesty 

Upon  reading  this  day  at  board  the  petition*  of 
Jacob  Leisler  Son  of  Capt"  Jacob  Leisler  deceased 
late  Coiiiauder  in  Chief  of  their  Maj''*"'  Province  of 
New  York  in  America,  Complaining  that  his  s^  father 

[•  The  petition  is   printed  In  the  Documentary  History  of  New  York,  11.  422-24,  and 
N.  Y.  Col.  Doc,    III.  826-26.] 


332  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

was  unjustly  put  to  death  with  Mr.  Milborne  y**  Secre- 
tary by  Col°  Slaughter  at  New  York  and  six  others 
were  condemned,  but  are  reprieved,  that  their  Estates 
are  confiscated  &  praying  to  be  relieved  and  care  taken 
for  y®  preservacon  of  that  Colony,  as  by  y^  s*^  petition 
more  at  large  appears  ;  His  MajY  in  Council  was  pleased 
to  refer  y®  s*^  petition  (a  copy  whereof  is  annexed)  to  the 
right  hon^'^  the  Lords  of  y®  Committee  for  trade  and 
foreign  Plantations,  to  examine  the  whole  matter  &  re- 
port y®  same  to  his  maj*^  at  this  board  and  then  his 
maj'7  will  declare  his  further  pleasure. 

(Signed)  Chae.  Montague. 


JACOB   LEISLEES    PETITION   TO   THE   LOEDS    OF   TEADE   AND 
PLANTATIONS. 

To  the  Right  Hon^'®  the  Lords  of  the  Committee  for 

ti-ade  and  foreigne  Plantations. 
The  IJumble  Petition  of  Jacob  Leisler   son  of  Capt.° 

Jacob  Leisler  late  of  New  York  in  America  dec*^ 
Sheweth. 

That  whereas  upon  hearing  and  examining  the  mer- 
rits  of  a  petition  proffered  by  your  Petitioner  to  his 
Sacred  Maje*^  your  Lordships  have  been  pleased  to  re- 
port your  opinion  touching  part  of  the  said  Petition.* 

Your  petitioner  doth  most  humbly  pray  that  your 
Lordships  will  be  pleased  to  take  into  Consideration  the 
sums  of  money  laid  out  by  your  petitioner's  s*^  father  for 
their  Maj*'?^  service  and  the  other  matters  contained  in 
s"^  peti°.°  and  further  represent  unto  her  majesty  the 
deplorable  condition  of  the  six  condemned  persons  now 
remaining  in  prison  at  New  York,  and  how  that  your 
petitioner's  said  father  had  the  chief  command  in  the 
said  province  for  their  Maj*^^  service  from  August  1G89 
untill  the  arrivall  of  Col."  Slaughter,  which  your  peti- 
tioner most  humbly  hopes  did  manifestly  appear  att  the 
s^  hearing,  and  that  your  Lordships  will  be  pleased  to 


[•Tbe 
III.  827. 


The  Order  in  Council  upon  this  report  (11  March,  1691,)  is  printed  in  the  N.  Y.    Col.  Doc, 


ADMINISTRATION    OF   LEISLER.  333 

intercede  with  her  maj^7  that  the  Sev.'^  Judgements  and 
Attainders  pronounced  against  your  peti^'s  s*^  father  & 
the  s*^  Milborne  &  six  others  prisonners  may  be  revers- 
ed &  made  voyd,  as  shall  be  advised  by  their  Maj*^'s 
council  learned 

And  your  Petit/  as  in  duty  bound  sliall  ever  pray  <&"* 

Jacob  Leisler. 


PETITION  of  ABRAHAM  GOUVERNEUE  AND  OTHERS  UNDER 
SENTENCE  OF  DEATH,  TO  THE  QUEEN. 

To  the  Queen's  most  Excellent  Majesty 
The  humble  petition  of  Abraham  Gouverneur,  Gerardus 
Beekman,  Mindert  Courten,  Thomas  Williams,  Jo- 
hannes Vermillen  and  Abraham  Brasier  of  New 
York  in  America  now  remaining  there  in  prison 
under  the  Sentence  of  death 
Sheweth, 

That  whereas  your  petitioners  all  who  have  faithful- 
ly served  your  Maj'i!*  were  unjustly  tryed  and  condemn- 
ed for  some  pretended  high  treason  against  your  Maj*7 
upon  consideration  whereof  your  Maj*r  has  been  gra- 
ciously pleased  to  declare  your  Boyall  intentions  to 
pardon  yr  petifr*  &  to  restore  their  Estates  unto  them 
as  fitt  objects  of  your  Maj*^*  mercy, 

Your  petitioners  do  therefore  most  humbly  beseech 
your  Maj*/  to  grant  unto  them  and  every  of  them 
your  Maj*If  gracious  pardon  and  also  to  grant  and  re- 
store unto  every  of  them  respectively  their  estates  real 
&  personal  which  have  been  seized  and  Confiscated  by 
colour  of  the  said  conviction. 

And  your  petit"  as  in  duty  bound  Shall  ever  pray 


ORDER    OF   THE   PRIVY    COUNCIL. 

At  the  Court  at  Whitehall  y«  13*^  of  May,  1692. 

Present 
The  Queen's  most  excellent  Maj*?"  in  Councell — 
Whereas  the  right  hon^'^  the  Lords  of  the  committee 


334  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

for  trade  and  Plantations  have  this  day  reported  to  her 
Maj*7  their  opinion  that  the  recognizances  taken  from 
several  persons  bound  over  to  appear  in  New  York 
about  October  or  November  last  for  joining  with  &  as- 
sisting Capt"  Leisler  whilst  he  took  upon  him  the  Gov* 
of  that  province  and  kept  y®  fort  there  and  upon  no 
other  account,  together  with  all  proceedings  thereupon 
may  be  discharged,  her  Maj*^  in  Councell  is  pleased  to 
approve  the  s*^  report  and  to  order  as  it  is  hereby  order- 
ed that  Colonell  Fletcher  Governor  of  New  Yorke  in 
America  doe  give  effectual  directions  that  the  Recogni- 
zance which  were  taken  from  the  severall  persons  bound 
over  to  appear  at  New  York  about  October  or  Novem- 
ber last  for  joiniug  with  and  assisting  Capt''  Leisler 
whilst  he  took  upon  him  the  Govern*  of  that  province 
and  kept  y®  foi't  there  and  upon  no  other  account  to- 
gether with  all  proceedings  thereupon  be  discharged 
according  to  the  said  report.  Rich.  Colinge. 


G.    BEEKMAN    AND    M.    COERTEN    TO    NICOLAS    COLLEN. 

P^anslated  from  the  original  in  Dutch,  by  S.  Alofsen,  Esq.] 

New  Utrecht,  the  29  Sept.  1693. 
Mr.  Nicolaes  Collen 

This  serves  to  make  it  known  to  you  that  we  are 
still  treated  here  with  all  manner  of  opprobrium  and 
scorn,  and  yet  daily  abused  as  rebels  and  traitors.  Sev- 
eral times  I  have  been  threatened  by  gov.  Fletser  him- 
self that  I  was  still  under  sentence  of  death  and  that  he 
could  have  me  executed  whenever  it  so  pleased  him. 
He  has  several  times  offered  to  procure  us  a  pardon 
from  their  Maj*!!^  but  we  did  not  desire  this  from  him, 
because  we  are  innocent  of  any  evil  deed.  Why  we  are 
treated  here  so  hard  by  Mr.  gov  Fletser,  is  because  the 
old  Council  who  always  have  been  our  bitter  Enemies 
are  now  again  set  as  heads  and  Rulers  over  us  and  from 
the  Circumstances  in  which  they  are  placed  they  know 
that  they  are  guilty  of  an  evil  deed  insomuch  as  they 
bring  before  the  Gov.'  such  matter  only  as  pleases  him 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  335 

well.  So  it  is  our  friendly  request  that  for  us  six  con- 
demned namely  for  myself  &  Myndert  Coerten,  Johan- 
nis  Vermilie,  Thomas  Wiljams,  Abram  Governeur 
Abram  Breyser  you  would  please  procure  our  freedom 
and  liberty  as  other  inhabitants  and  that  we  may  be  dis- 
charged from  the  sentence  which  has  been  passed  upon 
us  and  that  here  they  may  not  release  us  upon  recog- 
nizance nor  seek  to  regard  it  in  its  full  vigor.  What- 
ever the  costs  may  come  to  for  the  procuring  of  this 
we  will  thankfully  pay  to  you  or  to  your  order.  We 
hope  that  wqth  the  greatest  speed  you  will  use  all  dili- 
gence to  get  us  redressed  and  with  the  greatest  speed  by 
a  line  in  reply  show  us  your  friendly  disposition.  We 
will  not  fail  to  give  you  every  proper  satisfaction — 
meanwhile  remaining,  Gerardus  Beekman. 

Myndert  Corten. 

Your  obedient  and  affectionate  Friends  and  Servants 
Please  advise  Mr.  Leisler  hereof  and  on  our  part  with 
much  esteem  greet  him.  All  his  friends  are  yet  in  a 
good  disposition. 

Mr.  Mcolaes  Collen,  Merchant  at  Dover. 


PETITIONT    OF   THE    WIDOW    OF   LEISLER,    HER    SON   AND    SIX 
DAUGHTERS. 

To  the  Queen's  most  Excellent  Majesty 
The  humble  petition  of  Alice  the  widow  of  Capf"  Jacob 
Leisler  dec?  late  of  New  York  in  America  and  of 
Jacob  Leisler,  Susanna,  Catherine,  Mary,  Hester, 
Frances  and  Margarett,  the  son  &>  daughters  of  the 
dec^  Jacob  Leisler,  as  also  of  Mary  the  widow  of 
Jacob  Milborne  likeVise  deceased, 
Sheweth 

Whereas  the  deceased  Capf"  Leisler  &  Jacob 
Milborne  who  did  both  faithfully  serve  your  Maj'?' 
for  the  securing  and  governing  of  the  said  province 
near  two  years'  time  and  wherein  the  s*^  Capt"  Leisler 
did  expend  3000"    of  his  own  money  have  since  suf 


336  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

fered  death  and  their  estates  reall  and  Personall  being 
confiscated  to  the  utter  mine  of  your  petit"  your  Maj*7 
upon  taking  the  same  into  your  princely  Consideration 
has  been  graciously  pleased  to  declare  your  royal  inten- 
tion to  restore  the  said  Estates  unto  their  families  as  fitt 
objects  of  your  Maj^^'s  mercy  as  is  expressed  in  the  order 
of  Councell  hereunto  annexed. 

Your  Petitioners  who  are  the  most  distressed  Wid- 
ows and  Children  of  the  s**  Jacob  Leisler  and  Jacob 
Milborne  in  all  humility  prostrated  at  your  Maj'^'s  royal 
feets  (sic)  do  most  humbly  implore  your  maj'^  to  grant 
and  restore  the  real  and  personal  Estates  unto  your 
petitioners  and  that  Maj*^  will  be  graciously  pleased  to 
command  the  respective  Judgements  and  Attainders 
pronounced  against  the  s*^  Capf  Leisler  and  Jacob  Mil- 
borne  to  be  reversed  and  made  voyd  as  shall  be  advised 
by  your  Maj^'^'s  Council  learned. 

And  your  petitioners  as  in  duty  bound  shall  ever 
pray  ^'^ 


PETITION    TO    THE    KING    TO    REVERSE    THE    ATTAINDERS. 

The  following  Is  from  a  rough  copy  with  many  erasements  (sic)  additions, 

&Ca.     [DU  SiMITIERE.] 

That  your  petitioner  Jacob  Leisler's  late  father  being 
commander  in  chief  of  your  Maj^^'s  fort  in  the  s*^  Colony 
of  New  York,  was  attainted  of  high  treason  for  not 
delivering  y®  s**  fort  to  one  Major  Ingoldesby  who  pre- 
tended a  right  to  the  command  thereof  by  being  a  Capf^ 
of  one  of  your  Maj*''  foot  Companies  tho  the  s^  Major 
Ingoldesby  had  neither  in  that  nor  any  other  account 
any  legall  authority  to  demand  y®  possession  of  y^  s''  f  )rt. 
That  Jacob  Milborne,  dec*^,  you^  Petitioners  Abraham 
Gouvei'ueur,  Gerard  us  Beekman  Johanes  Vermilie  dec"^, 
Mynart  Coerten  Tho.  Williams  &  Abraham  Brasher  was 
also  attainted  of  high  Treason  &  felony  for  adhering  to 
and  assisting  y^  s*^  Jacob  Leisler  y"  Elder.  That  y®  s^ 
Jacob  Leisler  y^  Elder  and  y"*  s"^  Jacob  Milborne  were 
executed  for  y®  s*^  offences  but  that  the  execution  of  your 
petitioner  Ab™  Gouverneur  and  the   rest  of  the  said 


ADMINISTRATION   OF   LEISLER.  337 

persons  so  attainted  was  respited.  That  her  late  Majesty 
being  v^ery  sensible  of  the  hardship  of  y^  s^  case  of  your 
petitioners  and  the  rest  of  the  persons  before  mentioned 
was  graciously  pleased  to  direct  that  your  petitioner 
Jacob  Leisler  should  be  restored  to  y^  possession  of  his 
s*^  father's  estate  and  that  y®  widow  of  the  said  Jacob 
Milborne  should  have  and  enjoy  y®  estate  of  her  s'^  hus- 
band and  that  y®  severall  Estates  of  your  petif  Abm. 
Gouverneur  &  of  y®  rest  of  y®  said  persons  before  men- 
tioned Should  be  restored  to  them  respectively  and  also 
that  your  Petitr  Ab"'  Gouverneur  and  y®  rest  of  y^  s** 
Persons  should  be  discharged  from  their  eraprisonment, 
and  accordingly  grants  passed  y®  great  Seal  for  these 
purposes  and  your  petif  and  the  s^  other  persons  or 
some  claiming  from  or  under  them  have  ever  since  en- 
joyed some  part  of  their  respective  estates  tho  a  good 
part  thereof  be  still  detained  from  them  contrary  to  y® 
s*^  Grant.  That  y^  s*^  several  attainders  &  y*"  con'uption 
of  blood  which  was  wrought  thereby  remain  still  in  force 
&  may  turn  to  y®  great  injury  and  prejudice  of  your 
petif  and  the  rest  of  the  aforesaid  persons  &  their  heirs. 
Your  petif  therefore  most  humbly  pray  that  your  most 
Sacred  Maj*^  would  be  graciously  pleased  to  give  direc- 
tions that  y®  residue  of  their  respective  estates  may  be 
restored  or  some  Satisfiiction  made  to  them  for  y®  same, 
And  also  to  give  your  petitioner  leave  to  apply  to  y® 
parliament  in  order  to  procure  an  act  to  pass  for  y«  re- 
versions of  y®  s*^  Severall  attainders. 

And  your  Petit/  <fe°* 


PROCEEDINGS    OF    THE     PRIVY    COUNCIL     ON     THE     PETITION 
OF   LEISLER    AND    GOUVERNEUR. 

At  y"  Court  at  Kensington,  y^  28  Feb?'  1694. 
Present  y^  Kings  most  Excellent  Majesty  in  Councill. 

Upon  reading  this  day  at  y^  board  y®  humble  peti- 
tion of  Jacob  Leisler  and  Abraham  Gouverneur  both 
of  N.  York  in  America  Setting  forth  y*  services  of  y* 


338  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

petif  Leislers  late  father  J.  L.  in  securing  y^  province 
of  N.  York  for  bis  maj*^  in  y®  late  revolution,  and  y* 
upon  his  Maj*^^  letter  directed  (in  y®  absence  of  Capt" 
Nicholson)  to  such  as  for  y"*  time  being  took  care  for  pre- 
serving y"  peace  &  administering  y®  laws  there  y**  s*^ 
Jacob  Leisler  y®  Elder  faithfully  executed  his  maj'^' 
commands,  till  the  arrival  of  Capt.°  Ingoldesby  with  one 
Compan}'  of  foot  who  demanding  y®  fort  of  s^  Province 
without  any  authority,  which  being  refused  by  the  peti- 
tioner's said  father,  he  laid  Siege  to  it  from  y®  29th  of 
Janr^  to  y"  19th  March,  1690  being  y^  day  that  CoP 
Slaughter  y®  late  Governour  there  arrived,  unto  whom 
y^  s*^  fort  Avas  peaceably  delivered  Notwithstanding 
which  y*"  said  Jacob  Leisler  y®  Elder  and  Jacob  Mil- 
borne  were  attainted  &  executed  for  high  treason  in  not 
delivering  y^  fort  to  y^  s*^  Ingoldesby  &  his  accomplices 
&  Pet'  Ab™  Gouverneur,  Ger*^"'  Beekman,  Joh'  Vermi- 
lie  deceas*^  Mindert  Coerten  Th'  Williams  &  Ab™  Bra- 
zier attainted  also  for  assisting  the  said  Leisler.  That 
her  late  Maj*^' being  sensible  of  the  hardships  of  y®  pet"s 
Case  was  pleased  to  order  a  restitution  of  y^  estates  of 
y'"  Petition''  &  y^  Severall  persons  above  mentioned  with 
a  discharge  from  their  imprisonment  notwithstanding 
a  good  part  thereof  is  still  detained  and  by  y®  s*^  attain- 
der their  blood  is  corrupted,  and  therefore  praying  to 
be  restored  to  y''  residue  of  their  Estates  and  leave  to 
apply  to  y^  Parliament  for  reversal  of  their  attainders. 
It  is  this  day  ordered  by  his  Maj*?'  in  Council  that  that 
part  of  the  petition  for  having  y^  sev'"^  persons  therein 
mentioned  restored  to  y^  remainder  of  their  respective 
Estates  be  and  is  hereby  referred  to  the  B.  H.  y^  Lords 
of  y^  Committee  for  trade  and  plantations,  to  examine 
and  consider  there  of  &  report  to  this  board,  Avhat  they 
judge  fit  to  be  done  thereupon,  and  as  to  y®  reversing 
their  severall  Attainders  they  may  apply  themselves  to 
Parliament  for  obtaining  y^  same,  if  they  think  fit. 

John  Nicholas. 


ADmNISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  339 

PETITION    OF    LEISLER    AND    GOUVERNEUR   TO    THE    HOUSE    OF 
LORDS, 

To  the  Right  Honourable  the  Lords  Spiritual  &  Tem- 
poral in  Parliam'  assembled 
The  humble  petition  of  Jacob  Leisler  of  N.  York  in 

America  &,  Ab^T  Gouverneur  of  y^  same  place 
Sheweth 

That  Capt.°  Francis  Nicholson  being  upon  his  Maj*^ 
and  the  late  Queen's  accession  to  the  Throne  Lieut* 
Gov'  of  y®  s'^  Province  of  New  York  and  refusing  to 
declare  for  their  maj^.^s  or  submit  to  their  government 
withdrew  himself  from  y®  s*^  Province. 

That  thereupon  Jacob  Leisler  y®  late  father  of  yo' 
Petitioner  Jacob  Leisler  was  by  y®  Generall  Assembly 
appointed  Commander  in  chief  of  y®  Fort  &  province 
of  New  York  to  the  general  satisfiiction  of  y^  inhabit- 
ants &  afterwards  by  a  letter  from  his  Sacred  Maj^^  con- 
firmed in  y^  s*^  Command  untill  his  maj*^*  pleasure  should 
be  further  known. 

Thar  y^  s"*  Jacob  Leisler  by  virtue  of  y*"  s*^  authority 
so  given  and  confirmed  to  him  Proclaimed  their  s*^ 
Maj*^'  King  and  Queen  and  Secured  y^  s*^  Province  to 
their  Maj'^s  interest  &  faithfully  &  duly  executed  y®  s^ 
office. 

That  Col°  Sloughter  was  afterwards  by  his  Maj*7 
appointed  Governor  of  y^  s*^  Province,  but  about  six 
weeks  before  y"  s*^  Col°  Slaughter's  arrival  at  New  York 
one  Capt°  Ingoldsby  coming  thither  demanded  y®  pos- 
session of  y®  s*^  fort  pretending  a  right  to  y®  same  as 
Capt°  of  a  foot  Company  Tho  he  had  no  authority  either 
from  his  Maj\y  or  Col°  Slaughter  to  demand  the  posses- 
sion thereof 

That  the  said  Jacob  Leisler  refusing  to  deliver  y* 
possession  of  y®  s*^  Fort  to  y®  said  Capt°  Ingoldesby  for 
want  of  s*^  orders  he  y*  s*^  Ingoldesby  (together  with  one 
M'  Joseph  Dudley  now  called  Colonel  Dudley  and  sev- 
eral others  that  were  of  y^  Council  to  y®  s''  Nicholson) 
laid  close  siege  to  y®  s*^  fort  and  raised  batteries  against 


340  DOCUMENTS  KELATING  TO  THE 

it  and  Continued  y®  s"^  Siege  from  the  29th  of  January 
1690  untill  the  19th  of  March  following  at  which  time 
CoP  Slaughter  arrived  at  y''  s*^  Province  to  whom  the 
said  Jacob  Leisler  as  soon  as  he  had  notice  thereof  of- 
fered the  possession  of  the  fort  and  delivered  the  same 
accordingly. 

Notwithstanding  which  the  s*^  Jacob  Leisler  the 
elder  and  Jacob  Milborne  were  attainted  of  high  treas- 
on for  not  delivering  y^  s^  fort  to  y®  s**  Capt"  Ingoldesby 
&  his  accomplices  before  y^  said  Joseph  Dudley  Chief 
Judge,  Capt°  Ingoldsby  and  such  their  associates  that 
had  been  concerned  in  y"  besieging  y®  s*^  fort  as  afores^ 
And  y^  s*^  Leisler  and  Milborne  were  executed  for  y* 
same.  That  your  petitioner  Ab™  Gouverneur  —  Ger- 
ardus  Beekman,  John  Vermillie  dec.*^  Minart  Coerten, 
Thomas  Williams  &  Abraham  Brasher  were  also 
attainted  for  assisting  y®  s^  Jacob  Leisler  and  their 
Estates  seized. 

That  her  late  Maj*7  being  very  sensible  of  y®  hardships 
of  your  petitioner's  case,  was  graciously  pleased  to  direct 
that  the  said  persons  should  be  restored  to  their  estates. 

That  y''  s*^  attainders  &  y®  corruption  of  blood  which 
was  wrought  thereby  being  still  in  force  his  Maj*/  was 
graciously  pleased  by  his  order  in  Councill  dated  y® 
28th  of  February  last  to  give  leave  to  apply  to  Parlia- 
ment for  the  reversal  of  the  attainders. 

Your  Petitioners  therefore  most  humbly  pray  that 
your  Lordships  would  be  pleased  to  take  their  case 
into  your  serious  consideration  &  also  give  leave  y*  a 
bill  be  brought  into  this  hon^'''  house  for  y^  reversall  of 
y®  s*^  attainders. 

And  your  petitioners  as  in  duty  bound  shall  ever 
pray  &,"  (Signed)  Jacob  Leisler. 

Abraham  Gouveeneur. 


PETITION    OP    JACOB    MAURI TZ    AND    OTHERS    TO    THE    KING. 

To  the  King  s  most  Excellent  Maj  7 
The  humble  petition  of  Jacob  Mauritz,  John  Thomas, 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  341 

and  Jacob  Willems  and  others  on  the  behalf  of 
themselves  and  great  numbers  of  your  Maj'^*  loyal 
subjects  in  the  province  of  New  York  in  America. 
Sheweth, 

That  your  petitioners  did  to  their  utmost  power  as- 
sist in  securing  the  said  province  for  your  majV  and 
that  Capt"  Francis  Nicholson  (who  was  deputy  govern- 
or) having  withdrawn  himself  Capt°  Jacob  Leisler  was 
by  the  freeholders  and  inhabitants  Elected  Commander 
in  chief  untill  your  Maj*^s  royall  pleasure  was  known  : 
And  that  accordingly  y^  s*^  Capt"  Jacob  Leisler  with 
great  wisdom  and  Conduct  did  provide  for  y"*  safety  of 
y*"  said  province,  and  did  proclaime  your  Maj*7  and 
your  royal  consort  our  gracious  Si^veraign  Lord  & 
Lady  King  &  Queen  and  continued  to  govern  the  said 
province  with  great  regard  to  your  Maj^^'^  interest  &  the 
good  of  the  Country,  your  Maj'^  having  by  your  gra- 
cious letter  dated  y^  30th  of  July,  1689,  been  pleased  to 
confirme  him  in  the  said  government  till  further  orders, 
that  upon  the  28th  of  Jaimary  last  Capt°  Richard  In- 
goldesby  arrived  there  from  England  with  some  soldiers, 
who  required  the  possession  of  y^  s*^  fort.  But  he  hav- 
ing no  orders  for  that  purpose,  the  said  Capt"  Leisler 
was  advised  by  the  principall  inhabitants  not  to  surren- 
der the  same  before  the  arrivall  of  Col°  Sloughter  (now 
deceased)  who  your  maj*^  had  appointed  to  be  Governor 
&  was  shortly  after  expected,  or  till  your  Maj^^^  pleasure 
was  known.  Whereupon  y^  s'^  Capt"  Ingoldsby  in  an 
hostile  and  dreadfull  manner,  did  assemble  and  arme 
great  numbers  of  French  and  Papists  and  others  disaf- 
fected persons,  and  besieged  y"*  s*^  fort,  and  continued  to 
be  in  arms  to  the  great  terrour  of  your  Maj'-^s  liege  sub- 
jects, about  Six  weeks  till  y*"  s*^  Governor  Sloughter  did 
arrive  which  was  on  the  19  th  of  March  last.  Where- 
upon the  said  Captain  Leisler,  having  notice  thereof, 
was  willing  to  surrender  y^  fort  to  Govern'  Sloughter, 
and  accordingly  did  surrender  the  same,  on  the  20th  of 
March.  But  the  s'^  Governor  Sloughter  and  the  s*^ 
Ingoldesby  confederating  witli  divers  wicked  and   dis- 


342  DOCUMENTS    RELATING   TO   THE 

affected  persons  to  your  majesty  did  in  an  arbitrary  and 
illegal  manner  cause  the  said  Cap"  Leisler  who  had  on 
all  occasions  demonstrated  great  zeal  and  fidelity  to  your 
Maj'^^  service,  to  be  imprisoned  and  to  be  accused. 
Tryed  and  condemned  on  the  pretence  of  high  Treason 
and  have  since  executed  him  and  one  Mr.  Jacob  Mil- 
borne,  and  have  sentenced  to  death  several  other  of  your 
Maj^y*  faithful  subjects  on  the  like  false  pretence,  and  by 
divers  illegal  and  unjust  practices  against  your  peti- 
tioners and  great  numbers  of  your  majesty's  people  in 
the  said  province  have  most  cruelly  oppressed  them, 
Confiscating  their  estates  and  goods  and  forcing  them 
to  depart  the  said  province  for  the  preservation  of  their 
lives.  By  which  barbarous  and  cruel  proceedings  the 
said  Country  is  like  to  become  desolate,  the  greatest  part 
of  the  inhabitants  having  been  necessitated  to  depart 
the  s'^  Province  whereby  they  and  your  petitioners  will 
be  utterly  ruined,  if  your  Maj*^  is  not  graciously  pleased 
to  prevent  y®  same. 

Your  Peti"  therefore  humbly  implore  your  most 
sacred  Maj*^  to  take  the  premisses  into  your  royal  con- 
sideration and  in  regard  thereof  (and  of  the  French 
neighborhood  to  the  said  province)  to  appoint  a  Governor 
who  is  well  experienced  in  Warr,  and  by  whose  wisdom 
and  conduct,  the  said  Country  may  be  restored  and 
settled  in  Peace,  and  the  Inhabitants  leaving  y^  same, 
and  to  make  such  further  orders  herein  for  the  preserva- 
tion of  y^  s^  Province  and  for  the  relieff  of  your  2:)etition- 
ers  and  their  fellow  sufferers  as  to  your  princely  goodness 
shall  seem  meet. 

And  37our  petitioners  as  in  duty  bound  shall  ever  pray. 
(Signed)    Jacob  Mauritz,  Johannes  Provoost, 
John  Thomas,     Jacob  Wyllems. 


memorandum  for  AlSr  AFFIDAVIT INCOMPLETE. 

Dit  Sijn  de  tergatoris  van  Jacop  Maris  die  Ich  heant- 
woo7%  heb  ah-  onder  inH  Jaer  1694  den  31  Julij. 

That  in  or  about  y^  month  of  Feby.  March,  April, 


ADMINISTRATION    OF   LEISLER.  343 

May,  or  the  beginning  of  June,  1689,  news  came  that 
J®  Prince  of  Orange  was  Landed  in  England  by  Andrew 
Grevenraet  and  since  by  Claes  Gerrits'  Sloop  a  Barbades 
that  he  with  y*"  princess  was  proclaimed  King  and  Queen 
of  England  France  and  Ireland  &  of  y®  Dominions 
thereunto  belonging  and  Francis  Nicholson  the  then  L' 
Governor  left  the  Government  of  Niew  York. 

That  in  or  about  y®  month  of  June,  1689,  the  chiefe 
inhabitants  of  New  Yorke  did  meet  together  to  advise 
what  to  doe,  and  Capt°  Jacob  Leisler  &  y®  other  Cap- 
tyns  with  their  advice  proclaimed  their  Maj''^*  Wm.  & 
Mary  King  &  Queen  of  England  France  &  Ireland  & 
the  dominions  thereunto  belonging,  whereupon  the  Com- 
mittees for  y''  province  chosen  by  free  votes  of  y""  people 
did  cliuse  Capt"  Jacob  Leisler  and  made  him  Comander 
of  y"  fort  for  service  of  their  Maj''^'^'  K.  Wm.  &  :\I.  till 
orders  should  come  &  y®  said  inhabitants  did  promise  to 
assist  him. 

That  in  or  about  y^  month  of  August,  1689  the 
said  Comittees  of  y*  People,  did  impower  &  made  y*'  s*^ 
Jacob  Leisler  Comander  in  Chiefe  of  y®  province  of 
New  Yorke,  till  orders  should  come  from  their  Maj"^' 
&  y^  chief  oif  y*"  people  under  their  hands  and  seals  did 
engage  to  assist  him. 

That  y^  s*^  Jacob  Leisler  by  virtue  of  y^  premises 
toke  y**  Govern'  of  s^  Province  of  New  York  upon  him 
and  continued  in  y"  possession  for  there  maj"*"*  service 
severall  months  before  any  order  came. 

That  in  or  about  y^  month  of  December,  1689  came 
here  a  warrant  from  the  King  to  Francis  Nicholson  & 
in  his  absence  to  such  who  for  y"  time  being  take  care 
for  preserving  y°  peace  &  administering  the  laws  in 
New  Yorke  by  one  Mr.  Riggs,  w''''  warrant  was  by  him 
brought  in  y°  fort,  &  discoursing  in  y''  presence  of 
Fredi'ick  Phillips  &  Stephanus  Van  Cortlandt  as  alsoo 
this  deponent  &  more  people,  to  Capt"  Jacob  Leisler 
who  was  then  in  possession  of  y'  Government  &  did  say 
I  will  not  be  hanged  for  you  Mr.  Phillips  or  for  you 
Mr.  Cortlandt  but  if  you  Capt.  Jacob  Leisler  demand  it 


344  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

and  give  me  a  receipt,  I  shall  deliver  it  to  you  which 
was  promised  &  done  accordingly,  &  thereupon  y®  s*^ 
Capf"  Leisler  accept  of  y*'  s*^  Govern*  &  with  y^  Chiefe 
ofy*'  Inhabitants  &  in  agreate  number  did  proclaime  their 
majesties  again  including  Scotland,  w°^  before  was  not 
expressed  &  did  chuse  sever^  Councellors  &  acted  as 
their  lawful  Gov''  giving  out  all  sorts  of  commissions, 
calling  an  assembly,  making  with  them  laws  &  orders 
for  y'^  government,  remaining  so  in  possession  about  one 
yeare  before  any  order  came  &  y®  principall  of  y®  people 
did  subscribe  to  assist  him  in  the  same. 

That  Jacob  Leisler  when  in  possession  of  N.  York 
Government  having  received  advice  that  war  was 
proclaimed  in  England  against  y''  French  King  & 
his  subjects,  did  also  in  New  York,  &  did  grant  Comis- 
sions  &  in  particular  to  one  Francis  Goderis  &  Wm, 
Mason  to  take  of  y®  French  King  &  his  subjects  Ships 
&  Goods  &  to  bring  them  to  New  York  for  condemna- 
tion. 

That  y^  s*^  Goderis  did  fitt  out  in  May  or  June, 
1690  two  private  men  of  war  toke  severall  Ships  of  y® 
French  subjects  and  in  Particular  y"  Ship  Peter  &  did 
bring  them  to  New  Yorke  and  did  prosecute  y®  condemn- 
ation of  s'^  ship  before  y*' Judge  of  Admiralty  there  &  other 
members,  whereof  this  depon'  was  one,  and  by  examin- 
ation found  to  be  a  ship  belonging  to  y®  Subjects  of  y*' 
French  King. 

That  in  or  about  y''  month  of  September,  1690,  a 
publick  Court  of  Admiralty  was  kept  at  y"  Citty  Hall 
in  y^  Citty  of  New  Yorke  Peter  de  la  Noy  Judge  &  this 
deponent  &  other  persons  comissionated  members  & 
there  was  a  full  and  usual  Tryall  and  by  Sentence  of 
s*'  Court  y^  s"^  Ship  was  declared  to  be  good  prize. 

That  y®  s*^  said  ship  y®  St.  Peter  was  changed  of 
name  &  called  y^  Francis  &  Thomas  and  sold  for  y^  use 
of  y^  Privateers  in  a  vendue  by  Jacob  Milborne  and 
bought  by  Edward  Antill  for  Jacob  Mourits  for  five 
hundred  pounds  according  to  common  discourse  and 
was  then  called  y''  Beare  w*"^  I  have  painted  atler  s^ 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  345 

Ship    and   y®    s*^   Jacob   Mounts   had    s*^   ship    in    his 
possession. 

The  above  is  copied  from  an  original  i)aper  of  that  time  in  the  possession 
of  Mr.  Gerardus  Duyukingin  New  York  it  appear  (sic)  to  me  to  liave  been 
the  rough  copy  of  an  aflSdavit  of  Jacob  Maurits*  when  in  England,  &  of 
the  same  nature  with  those  of  Robert  Sinclair  and  others.  [See  pages 
314-31  and  K  Y.  Doc.  Hist,  II.  402.     Du  Simitieee.] 


DEPOSITION   OF   CITIZENS    OF   NEW    YORK. 

Wee  underwritten  Cittizens  of  New  York,  doe  declare 
and  are  ready  to  depose  upon  oath  as  followeth.  That 
in  de  beginning  of  June  anno  one  thousand  six  hundred 
and  eighty  nine  the  Lieut*  Gov""  Francis  Nicollson  &  the 
inhabitants  of  New  Yorke  had  public  certain  news  that 
their  maj''''"  Wm  &  Mary  were  proclaimd  King  and 
Queen  of  England,  &°  and  then  said  Nicholson  left  the  go- 
verning of  New  Yorke  and  withdrew  from  the  execution 
thereof,  being  not  thereunto  compelled  or  constrained; 
but  s*^  Nicolson  before  he  went  had  some  difference  with 
y"  militia  of  y*"  Citty  (by  him  permitted  to  watch  in  y" 
Fort  whoe  came  there  with  half  compagnies  and  drum 
beating  and  relieved  themselves  every  day  by  turnes) 
about  y''  stores  of  Powder  and  other  ammunition,  of 
which  they  would  have  a  vew  and  be  satisfied  in  iff  was 
sufficient  to  resist  an  enemy,  wherefore  they  were  ill- 
treated  and  called  rebels,  and  also  about  placing  of  a 
centry  at  y''  Saly  port  in  y*"  fort,  and  as  hatz  (sic)  being- 
deposed  by  several  whereof  y®  deponents  have  seen  y^ 
original  depositions,  did  threaten  in  his  passion  to 
pistoU  one  of  their  Corporalls  and  to  Fire  y"  Townne, 
which  made  a  gj^eat  noise  and  brought  the  burger  mili- 
tia to  draw  into  y*"  fort,  and  to  send  by  their  Serj',  to  y^ 
Citty  Hall  for  y*"  Key  of  the  Fort  or  magazyn,  because 
they  would  inspect  y*'  stores,  but  he  did  refuse  to  deliver 
y''  same  to  y''  Serjant,  and  ordered  they  should  send  a 
Captain  or  Lieutenant  &  he  would  give  him  y''  Key, 
then  they  persuaded  Capt"  Lodwyk  (whoe  that  day  had 
y®  watch  in  y^  fort)  to  goe  whoe  went  with  the  Serjant 
and  some  men,  to  y**  Citty  Hall  and  according  to  his 

[*  That  this  is  an  error  is  apparent  from  the  title  and  contents  of  the  paper  itself.] 


346  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

promise  did  deliver  y®  Key  to  y®  s*^  Capt°,  which  was  (as 
y*"  deponents  are  ready  to  declare  and  have  heard)  a 
small  key  to  open  a  trunk  or  Cabinett  where  y®  Keys  of 
y®  fort  or  magazyn  were  in,  and  so  they  went  peaceably 
to  y^  fort  again,  using  no  force  or  molestation  against 
him,  all  which  was  notorious  and  publick  discoursed,  and 
y^  stores  were  examined  and  found  defective,  and  most 
of  y"  powder  spoiled  and  unfitt  to  resist  an  enemy, 
which  was  since  mended  by  y''  powder  maker.  Since 
that  time  said  Nicollson  absented  himself  from  the  fort, 
and  left  it  although  desired  by  y^  Serjeant  Churcher 
that  came  for  y''  Key  with  y"  Capt"  to  come  to  y"  fort 
and  that  he  could  have  y""  Key  again  and  when  he  went 
out  to  leave  the  same  to  y®  Capt°  in  y"  watch  in  y"  fort 
and  he  abided  in  y*"  Citty  the  militia  being  in  that  con- 
dition severall  days  did  take  a  resolution  to  secure  and 
keep  y^  fort  till  order  should  come  from  Engelandt  in 
tenor  of  a  proclamation  whereof  made  the  third  day  of 
June,  anno  one  thousand  six  hundred  eighty-nine,  which 
wee  have  seen.  Then  publick  certain  news  came  that 
their  Maj*'"'  were  proclaimed  in  Engeland  King  and 
Queen  of  England,  &",  but  s*^  Nicollson  continuing  after 
this  several  days  more  in  the  city,  did  not  declare  for 
their  Maj"®'  kept  to  his  old  Commission,  praying  pub- 
lickly  for  y*"  late  King  leaving  his  name  in  y*"  Kings 
arms  and  not  discharging  Popish  officers,  and  finally  y" 
s''  Nicollson  went  unmolested  out  of  y''  Citty  and  abided 
severall  days  more  in  y"  province,  and  then  went  away 
with  a  vessell  and  so  uncompelled  and  unconstrained  left 
y®  government,  and  withdrew  from  y"  execution  thereof! 
all  which  y^  most  of  y''  militia  can  declare. 

In  testimony  of  y"  truth  we  have  hereunto  set  our 
hands  in  New  Yorke  y^  22nd  day  of  August,  ao.  1694. 

(Signed) 
Leendert  huygen       Jacobus  Goelet,  Pieter  Yacobsen 

De  Kleyn  Albert  Clock,     Jan  Tunese 

Carsten  Luersen,     Albertus  Ringo,  Pieter  Willemse 

E,OOME 

Johannes  Tiebout,  Poulus  Turck,  Juny? 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  347 

New  York  y"  22^^  of  August,  1694. 
Then  appeared  before  me  Jacop  Goelet,   Lendert 
Huygen,  and  all  the  above  written  persons  and  did  de- 
clare upon  their  oath  and  y^  holy  Evangelists  the  above 
mentioned  writting  and  deposition  to  be  true. 

Will.  Beekman,  Justis. 


DEPOSITION    OF    GERARDUS    BEEKMAN. 

New  Yorkethe  first  day  of  Sepf,  1694. 

Then  appeared  before  me  W™  Beakman  Justice  of 
y°  Peace  for  y^  City  and  County  of  New  Yorke, 
Gerardus  Beekman  and  deposeth  upon  his  oaths, 
on  the  holy  Evangelists,  viz.' : 
That  at  y^  arrival  of  y"  govern""  Benj*  Fletcher  to 
New  Yorke  the  prisonner  brought  under  Condemnation 
delivered  to  him  a  petition,  with  congratulation  and 
gladness  of  his  arrival,  hoping  he  came  with  their 
majesties  order  to  release  them  of  their  miserable  con- 
feynment,  which  they  had  been  forced  to  suffer  for  the 
true  service  done  for  their  Maj*""^'  Whereupon  he 
called  this  deponent  and  Abraham  Gouverneur  at  y^ 
Citty  Hall  in  y"  presence  of  Coll.  Abraham  de  Peyster 
and  Sheriffe  Thomas  Codington  y^  31st  August,  1692 
and  did  say,  you  have  petitioned  to  me  without  my 
Councill.  I  know  they  are  your  enemies,  but  I  must 
rule  the  Country  with  them,  you  do  justify  yourselves 
in  y"  petition,  but  their  Maj"*""  have  disapproved  and 
very  ill  taken  y^  actions  of  Leisler,  you  are  under  y^  law 
and  sentence  of  death,  in  cause  you  will  not  acknow- 
ledge by  petition  to  me  and  Coimcil  j^our  fault  I  shall 
execute  y*'  law  against  you.  I  am  a  man  of  my  word.  I 
have  no  order  from  their  Maj"'''  to  set  you  at  Liberty  and 
shall  write  against  you  and  Stop  all  wliat  shall  come  in 
your  favour,  but  in  case  you  do  it  I  shall  release  you, 
by  y®  threatenings  of  death  y''  s'^  Prisonners  made  a 
petition  accordingly,  expressing  therein  in  cause  their 
Maj''"'    were    displeased     in     what    was     acted,    then 


348  DOCUMENTS    RELATING    TO    THE 

they  were  sorrow  for  it,   and  upon   it  they  were  sett 
at  Liberty.  (Signed)  Wm.  Beekman, 

Justis. 

NOTES    OF    THE     EXAMINATIONS    BEFORE     THE    COMMITTEE    OF 

THE    HOUSE    OF    COMMONS. 

[TTie  Bill  for  Reversing  the  Attainder  of  Jacoh  Leisler  and  others  was 
delivered  in  to  the  Lords  on  the  2d  April,  1695,  and  had  a  first  reading  on 
the  3d.  On  the  4th.  it  was  read  a  second  time  and  its  consideration  com- 
mitted to  tliirty-four  Lords  or  any  five  of  them — the  words  "  arbitrarily, 
illegally  and  unjustly  "  being  left  out  of  the  bill.  Ou  the  9th,  it  was 
reported  with  amendments,  which  were  read  twice  and  agreed  to,  and  the 
Bill  was  ordered  to  be  engrossed.  On  the  10th,  it  was  read  the  third  time 
and  passed.  It  was  sent  to  the  House  of  Commons  on  the  same  day,  when  it 
was  read  a  first  time,  and  ordered  for  a  second  reading  on  the  11th.  On 
the  12th  it  was  read  the  second  time  and  referred  to  a  Committee  of  forty 
members.  On  the  16th  it  w;is  reported  without  amendments,  and  recom- 
mitted on  the  17th.  On  the  18th.  authority  was  given  to  the  Committee 
to  senil  for  persons  and  papers.  On  the  22d  a  vote  was  passed  that  "  all 
that  come  to  the  Committee  "  should  "  have  voices" — from  which  it  appears 
that  members  of  the  House  who  were  not  on  the  Committee  were 
interesting  themselves  in  its  proceedings.  On  the  80th  April,  the  Bill  was 
again  reported,  without  amendments,  and  on  a  motion  to  recommit  the 
House  divided,  and  it  passed  in  the  negative — 88  to  84.  On  a  motion  that 
the  Bill  be  now  read,  there  were  87  against  it  to  85  for  it.  On  the  2d  of 
May,  the  motion  that  the  Bill  be  read  the  third  time  prevailed  by  a  vote  of 
49  to  36.  It  was  accordingly  read  and  then  passed,  and  Sir  Henry  Ashhurst 
was  ordered  to  carry  the  Bill  to  the  Lords  and  acquaint  them  that  the 
House  of  Commons  "  hath  agreed  to  the  same,  without  any  amendments." 
Being  thus  returned, — as  the  last  act  of  the  Session,  which  terminated  on 
the  3d  of  May,  the  Royal  Assent  was  pronounced — "  Soitfait  come  il  est 
desire.''''] 

Informations  taken  by  y^  Committee  of  y"  House  of 
Commons  before  the  passing  off  the  Bill  for  the 
reversal  of  Jacob  Leister's  attainder. 

Mercurij  24  die  Aprilis.  [1695.] 

The  Comittee  met  and  y^  Secretary  of  y^  Court  of 
Admiralty  produced    y®  depositions   and  other   papers 
sent  from  New  York.     Then  y*"  Committee  proceeded  to 
examine  such  persons  as  opposed  y''  Bill,  viz'' 
Mr.    Dudley  saith  that  he  had   no  notice  of  this  Bill 
untill  he  saw  it  in  y*^  votes. 
That  the   persons  to  be  restored  are  foreigners  the 
one  a  german  and  the  other  a  frenchman  and  so 
have  no  right  to  be  restored. 


ADMINISTRATION    OF   LEISLER.  349 

Saith  that  Col"  Nicholson  was  the  Lieut*  Govern'' _at 
y**  time  that  y^  bill  suggested  Leisler  was  Com- 
ander  in  chief. 

That  y®  King's  letter  was  directed  to  Col°  Nicholson 
or  to  such  persons  as  had  the  command  there. 

That  Capt'^  Leisler  was  in  y^  Fort  before  CoP  Nich- 
olson arrived. 

That  Major  Ingoldesby  arrived  before  Mr.  Dudley 
arrived  and  that  he  informed  Leisler  that  Col" 
Slaughter  was  coming  but  Leisler  refused  (to) 
admit  him. 

Jovis  25°  Apr. 

That  Col°  Nicholson  was  Governor  there  at  y^  time 

ofy^  Revolution. 
That  y''  government  was  in  y®  prince  and  princess  of 

Orange. 
That  Capt°   Leisler  entered  y^  fort  and  turned  out 

Nicholson  and  about  30  soldiers. 
That   y^  day   after   Nicholson    went    away   Leisler 

entred. 
That  he  imprisoned  severall  that  were  of  y®  Kings 

Councill. 
That  he  broke  y®  peace  and  laws   and  committed 

great  abuses  by  taking  away    goods   from    y® 

people,  he  thrust  Nicholson  out  of  the  Castle  and 

put  severall  of  y^  Councill  into  y^  dungeon. 
That   Major   Ingoldesby    arrived  about  six   weeks 

before  Col"  Slaughter  and  came  and  shewed  his 

Commission    &  desired    entrance  &    that  Maj"" 

Ingoldsbv  had  two  Comp'^'  of  Grenadeers. 
That  upon  y'^  10*''  of  March  1691  Capt"  Leisler  set 

out  a  paper  to  let  y™  know  that  if  the  soldiers 

would  not  depart  from  y®  town  he  would  beat 

y®  town  about  their  ears. 
That   Govern eur  shot  a  poor  man   dead  being  y® 

parish  Clerk. 
That  he  saw  a  poor  Carter  shot  and  another  shot 

through  y®  thigh. 


350  DOCUMENTS  EELATING  TO  THE 

That  Col°  Slaughter  sent  Maj""  Ingoldesby  to  demand 
y^  fort,  who  answered  that  there  was  no  room  for 
Slaughter. 
That  he  sent  a  2^  time  to  demand  y®  fort  &  received 
y^  same  answer,  but  at  last  would  admit  him  if 
he  would  come  in  blindfold. 
The  3*^  time  he  went  to  demand  y®  fort  and  that  he 

had  y®  same  answer. 
But  y^  next  day  Capt°  Slaughter  put  out  a  paper  to 
indemnify  such  as  would  quit  y*"  Fort  and  there- 
upon they  came  out  of  y^  Fort  and  about  20  seized 
him  &  delivered  him  up  to  C°'°  Slaughter. 
That  a  commission  of  Oyer  &  Terminer  was  issued 
out  to  twelve  genf"   whereof  he  was  one   and 
was  eight  days  before  y^  Court  and  refused  to 
plead  upon  which  judgment  was  passed  against 
him. 
That  Col"  Slaughter  gave    him   a  reprieve  for  10 
davs   in  all  which  time  he  never  submitted  to 
Col"  Sloughter. 
That  Col°  Fletcher  sent  out  a  warr^  to  apprehend 

Gouverneur  as  a  disturber  of  y^  peace. 
That  Col°  Sloughter  lay  at  anchor  at  y®  time  when 

this  disturbance  happened. 
That  Col"  Nicholson  was  turned  out  by  Leisler  and 
y®  rabble  and  he  came  into  England  and  submit- 
to  his  Maj'y 
Q.  What  day  Col"  Slaughter  came  to  anchor. 
Ans.    Saith  that  y®  day  after  y^  people  were  killed  in 

y®  town. 
Q.    When  he  landed. 
Q.   Whether  Col"  Sloughter    opened  his   Commission 

before  he  landed. 
A.    Kno\vs  not. 
Q.   Whether  he  was  present  when  his  Commission  was 

read. 
A.    That  he  was  present  and  heard  it  read. 
Q.   Whether  (after  the  publication  of  his  Commission) 
Leisler  refused  to  deliver  y""  fort. 


ADinNISTRATION    OF   LEISLER.  351 

A.  That  he  den3^ed  it  three  times  and  held  up  his  hat 
and  saith  there  was  no  room  for  Sloughter. 

Q.  Whether  he  was  present  when  Ingoldesby  demanded 
y^  Castle  of  Leisler. 

A.    He  was  y®  third  time. 

Q.  Whether  De  la  Noy  and  Milborne  did  not  come  out 
to  offer  y'  fort  to  Col°  Sloughter. 

A.  That  De  la  Noy  and  Milborne  did  not  come  to 
offer  any  such  offer. 

Mr.  Anthill.  That  he  was  Mr.  Milborne's  council  and 
that  there  was  an  Indictement  ag**  Gouverneur 
for  killing  y®  parish  klerk  wch.  he  saw  and  this 
was  about  4  days  before  Col°  Slaughter  arrived. 

Q.    Whether  Leisler  refused  to  plead  when  he  was  tryed. 

Ans.  That  when  they  were  called  to  plead  they  say  they 
could  not  submit  to  Col°  Slaughter  Com° 
That  Leisler  and  Milborne  objected  ag^'  Mr.  Dudley 
and  said  that  he  was  not  a  Competent  Judge. 

Q.  Whether  any  question  was  put  to  the  Court  by 
them  wch.  they  desired  to  be  resolved  before 
they  pleaded. 

Ans.  That  there  was  a  paper  delivered  to  y^  Court,  but  he 
knew  not  y®  contents. 

Q.   Whether   all    was    ordered  to   withdraw   upon  y® 
delivery  of  y®  paper. 
Saith  yes. 

Mr.  Dudley  when  they  came  the  second  time  they  re- 
fused to  plead  &  the  offered  a  paper  &  y*  y** 
contents  of  y^  paper  was  that  they  desired  to  be 
tryed  in  England. 

Q.  What  was  the  reason  y®  people  was  ordered  to  with- 
draw 

Veneris  26''  die  Aprilis. 

The  Committee  met  and  Mr.  Povey  produced  a 
letter  from  y''  Councill  at  New  York  to  y**  Lord 
Shrewsbury.* 

Adj*^  till  6  in  y**  afternoon. 

[•  See  NewYork  Colonial  Doc,  III.  585.) 


352  DOCUMENTS    RELATING   TO   THE 

I*ost  Meridiem. 

Mr.  Anthill  saith  in  April  '89  they  had  an  account 
of  the  p°®  of  Orange  was  landed  in  England 
whereupon  Coll°  Nicholson  called  a  Council! 
A  shipp  arrived  there  laden  with  wines  and  that 
there  was  a  duty  of  4  p^  a  pipe  to  y®  government 
but  Leisler  refused  to  pay  it,  but  got  y^  wines 
into  cellars  and  upon  this  the  rabble  was  up  and 
Leisler  took  y^  Fort  and  put  out  all  y®  souldiers 
and  afterwards  Leisler  sent  out  some  people  in 
arms  to  demand  y®  keys  of  y®  fort. 

That  he  after  joined  w^*"  a  parcel  of  people  wch. 
he  called  his  counsell  and  issued  out  warrants 
to  apprehend  several  of  y®  King's  Council. 

That  he  issued   out   orders  to  comand  all  who  had 
Commissions  in  y®  former  government  to  surren- 
der their  Commissions  to  him  and  some  refusing 
he  put  in  prison  several  of  them. 
Q,   Whether  he  was  appointed  Mr.  Leisler  councell. 
Answ.   He  was. 

That  one  Milborne  afterwards  arrived  from  Hol- 
land who  was  made  one  of  Leisler  councell 
he  gave  information  that  y*"  Pr.  of  Orange  was 
landed  in  England  and  he  encouraged  tlie  In- 
surrection there. 

That  he  said  he  was  sorry  that  they  left  Nicholson 
go  away  to  England. 

That  Leisler  declared  himself  Vice  Admiral  of  the 
Seas  and  granted  Commissions  to  several. 

That  upon  y®  arrival  of  Major  Ingoldsby  the 
Governour  was  gone  to  Bermudas  &  demands 
Entrance  into  y®  fort  for  his  himself  &  soldiers 
&  y*  Leisler  refused  and  issued  out  a  Proclama- 
tion that  whoever  should  adhere  and  assist  CoP 
Ingoldsby  should  be  declared  enemies. 

That  he  raised  rebellion  there  and  several  people 
were  shot  to  death  others  wounded  and  some 
others  injprisoned. 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  353 

That  when  Col"  Sloughter  arrived  he  with  the  whole 
Council  went  into  y^  Staclt  House  and  his 
Com""  was  read  and  he  was  sworne  and  then  he 
sent  Col"  Ingoldsby  to  demand  y^  Fort  who 
made  answer  that  he  would  call  a  councill  and 
consider  of  it  &  so  Col''  Ingoldesby  came  and 
demanded  y®  fort  three  times. 
That  that  night  several  of  Leisler  men  deserted  & 
y^  next  day  CoP  Ingoldsby  came  to  y^  Castle 
and  the  gate  was  thrown  open  and  Leisler  stood 
at  y^  head  of  his  men  and  CoP  Ingoldsby  bid 
them  lay  down  their  arms. 

Q.    Mr.  Nicholson  at  any  time  refuse  to  declare  for  y® 
Prince  of  Orange. 

Ans.  He  never  did. 

He  saith  that  Leisler  seized  the  fort  before  Nicholson 

went  off. 
Nicholson  lay  severall  days  at  Frederick  Phillipse's 

house  after  Leisler  seized  y®  fort. 
Saith   that   he  seized  the  fort  in  the  name  of  the 
prince  of  Orange. 

Q.    Whether  y''  man  which  was  killed  from  y^  was  was 
(sic)  before  CoP  Sloughter  landed 

Ans.     It  was  before  he  landed. 

Q.    Whether  there  was  any  acts  of  hostility  committed 
b}^  CoP  Ingoldsby. 

Ans.     Saith  that  some  jruns  were  discharged. 

Q.     Whether  any  guns  was  planted  against  y^  fort. 

An,'i.     Saith  there  was. 

Q.      Whether  the  fort   fired  upon   y*  town  or  y*"  town 
against  y^  fort. 
Saith  y^  fort  fired  upon  y^  town  first. 

Q.      Whether  Major  Ingoldesby  shewed  Leisler  his  Coin. 

Ans.     He  cannot  tell  but  he  heard  him  say  he  had. 

Q.      Capt.   Leisler  did  not  offer  to  CoP  Ingoldesby  a 
kind  reception  for  him  and  his  men. 

Ans.     He  never  heard  he  did. 

Q.      Whether  a  shot  came  from  Town  at  one  of  Leisler 
men  in  a  boat. 
23 


854  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

Ans.     He  did  hear  there  was  a  man  shot  in  a  boat. 
Q.      What  day  did  Leisler's  prodamation  come  out. 
Ans.     It  was  as  soon  as  ever  Ingoldsby  landed,  Kesolu- 

tions  received. 
Q.      Whether  these  resolutions  were  after  Capt"  Leisler 

was  Tryed  or  before. 
A71S. 

Q.      Whether  those  that  made  these  resolutions  .  .  . 
Mr.  Farwell  that  he  arrived  at  New  York  in  March 
about  a  week  before  CoP  Sloughter. 
That  a  Com°°  of  Oyer  &  Terminer  was  issued  out 

to  try  Leisler  &  others. 
And  Leisler  and  Milborne  were  arraigned  and  they 
refused  to  plead  saying  they  had  no  power  to 
try  them  but  desired  to  be  sent  into  England. 
That  Capt''  Leisler  desired  before  he  pleaded  to  have 

his  Coin°°  read.  _ 

But  y®  Court  said  if  he  would  plead  that  Com°°  and 
whatever  else  he  had  to  offer  to  be  read. 
Q.    Whether  they  were  tryed  upon  one  or  two  Indicte- 
ments. 
Saith  it  was  upon  two  indictments. 
That  there  was  a  Petition  exhibited  to  y®  Councill 

and  a  hearing  for  severall  days. 
And  upon  y*"  petition  the  Councell  made  a  report 
that  Leisler  and  Milborne  was  executed  accord- 
ing to  law.* 
Saith  that  he  hath   seen  a   proclamation  of  warr 
under  Capf"  Leisler  and  Milborne's  hands  de- 
claring warr  ag^  Ingoldsby  and  all  his  adherents. 
And  alsoe  a  letter  writ  by  Leisler  directed  to  one 
Brazier  wherein  he  had  a  design  to  destroy  y" 
whole  Town. 
Adjourned  till  tomorrow  morning  eight  o'clock. 

Sah''  27  die  Aprilis,  1695. 
The  Committee   met    and  adjourned   till   4   in   y** 
afternoon. 

I*  See  2f6W  York  Colonial  Doc,  IIL  827.] 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  355 

Lune  29"  die  Aprilis^  1695. 
The  Committee  met  and  Mr.  Dudley  appeared. 

Q.  "Was  asked  Mr.  Dudley  how  Mr.  Anthill  came  to  be 
Mr.  Leisler  s  Councill. 

A.   Mr.  Leisler  made  choice  of  him. 

Capt.  Foster     Saith  that  Leisler  was  in  possession  of  y® 
fort  when  he  came  there. 
That  he  had  laine  at  New  York  for  six  weeks  very 

quiet. 
That  there   was  a   Complaint  that    some   of  CoP 
Ingoldsby's  Souldiers,  had  committed   abuses  in 
y®  town,  for  which  complaint  was  made  where- 
upon Col°   Ingoldesby    appointed     Soldiers    to 
walk  the  rounds  for  which  Leisler  was  offended. 
That  afterwards  there  was  a  disturbance  happened 
and  some  guns  was  discharged  from  y®  Fort  & 
some  from  y^  Town  against  y®  Fort. 
That  there  was  no  disturbance  for  a  month  or  Six 

weeks  after  Col"  Ingoldsby  came. 
That   when  he  landed    he  heard    people    say    that 
Leisler  was  Capt""  General  or  Governor. 

Q.    What  Councell  was  it  came  aboard  to  Ingoldesby, 

A.    They  were  designed  to  be  of  Col.  Sloughter. 

Q.  How  Col°  Leisler  behaved  himself  after  Col** 
Sloughter  arrived. 

A.  When  he  arrived  he  went  to  y®  Stadt  House  his 
Coirn°"  read  &  he  was  Sworn  &  sent  to  demand 
y®  Fort. 

Q.    Whether  Leisler  delivered  y"  Fort  peaceably. 

A.  Y*  gates  was  opened  the  next  morning  and  y^  fort 
delivered. 

Q.  The  Patroll  was  sent  out  by  Capt""  Leisler  or  Col° 
Ingoldesby. 

Ans.   Saith  it  was  sent  out  by  CoP  Ingoldsby. 

Q.  Who  he  tooke  to  be  the  Chief  Commander  before 
Col°  Sloughter  arrived. 

Ans.  Leisler  was  esteemed  by  some  to  be  y*  Chief 
Governour. 


356  DOCUMENTS    RELATING    TO    THE 

Q.    Whether  after  Ingoldesby  came  those  who  were  y** 

Councell  for  Sloughter  opposed. 
Ans.  They  did  not  oppose. 
Councell  for  Leisler. 

Saith  that  if  Capt"  Leisler  was  constituted  Chief 
Governour  by  y®  people  then  he  committed  no 
Treason. 

That  what  Col°  Dudley  has  offered  has  been  noth- 
ing to  the  purpose. 

That  Col''  Slaughter  landed  y"  19th  &  y"  indict*  sets 
forth  y^  treason  committed  y®  17th  and  therefore 
y^  indict*  void. 

That  Nicholson  refused  to  proclaim  K.  Wm.  and 
Q.  Mary. 
Mr.  Gouverneur     That  he  was  in  N  York  when  news 
came  that  K.  Wm.  was  landed  in  England. 

That  he  was  one  that  was  appointed  to  go  y*  rounds 
&  he  said  Nicholson  was  drawing  (sic.) 

That  Leisler  was  appointed  Governor  of  y®  Fort 
by  y''  Government. 

That  Col°  Ingoldesby  arrived  &  Sent  to  demand  y® 
fort  &  Capt"  Leisler  answered  y*  if  he  had  any 
authority  he  should  have  y®  fort. 

That  he  found  a  protestation  issued  out  by  Ingoldes- 
by to  excite  people  to  raise  arms. 

That  he  see  severall  guns  planted  by  Ingoldsby 
people. 

That  severall  guns  was  discharged  both  from  y®  fort 
and  from  y®  Town. 

March  y^  19th  Major  Ingoldesby  came  to  y®  fort  and 
demanded  entrance  &  was  admitted  and  Ingoldes- 
by told  Leisler  y''  Col°  Sloughter  demanded  y^ 
fort  &  Leisler  answered  that  if  CoP  was  arrived 
and  would  show  his  Commission  he  was  willing 
to  surrender  his  fort. 

That  when  y®  fort  was  delivered  Capt°  Leisler  was 
seized  &  about  27  more  and  were  comitted  to 
prison  eight  da3's  before  a  mittimus  was  made. 

That  when  they  came  upon  his  Tryal  he  was  told  he 


ADMINISTRATION    OF   LEISLER.  357 

had  a  way  to  save   his  life  that  if  he  would  y* 
Leisler  set  him  on.  (sic) 
Q.    How  long  he  lay  in  prison. 
A.    17  Weeks  and  odd  days. 
Q.   How  came  he  out. 
A.    Col°  Fletcher  let  him  out  b}^  y*'  queen's  letter. 

When   CoP  Fletcher  arrived  he  was  in  prison  &  he 
petitioned  him  &  he  was  called  up  before  him  & 
asked  how  he  dared  to  pet"  him  he  ought  to  be 
hanged  &   he   should  be  hanged  if  he  did  not 
acknowledge  his  offence  wl^ereupon  he  was  forced 
to  petition  y^  Council. 
Mr.  Leisler     That  upon  y'  31st  of  May  the  Capt°'  of  y' 
militia  took  possession  of  y®  fort  &  afterwards  a 
Gen^  Assembly  was  called  &  they  chose  Capt° 
Leisler  Commander  in  chief. 
In  Jan^  Ingoldesby  arrived  &  demanded  possession 
of  y®  fort  from  Capt"  Leisler  who  said  if  they 
had  any  authority  he  would  deliver  it. 
That  he  saw  several  guns  planted  against  the  fort. 
That  when  Col°  Sloughter  arrived  he  sent  Ingoldes- 
by to  demand  y®  fort  &  Capf  Leisler  sent  two, 
viz :    Milborne  and  De  la  Noy  to  see  whether 
Col°  Sloughter  was  come  but  they  never  come 
back. 
That   he  was  sent  to  prison    &    remained  6   days 
without  a  mittimus. 


AN    answer    to    the    REASONS    AGAINST   LEISLER  S    BILL. 

Annexed  to  a  printed  Act  for  Reversing  the  Attainder  of  Jacob  Leisler  and  others,  I  found 
the  following  printed  on  the  same  sheet.     [Uu  Simitiere.] 

Humbly  offered  to  the  consideration  of  the  Honourable 
House  of  Commons. 
The  Preable  of  the  said  bill  attirins  these  Particulars : 
viz: 
1st.  The  Inhabitants    of  New  York  in    their  general 
assembly  constituted  Cai)t"  Jacob   Leisler  their 
Commander  in  chief,  till  their  majesty's  pleasure 
should  be  known  therein. 


358  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

2d.  that  the  said  Capf"  Leisler  was  afterwards  confirmed 
in  the  said  command  by  his  Majesty's  letter, 
dated  July  30,  1689. 

3d.  that  the  said  Capt"  Leisler  having  the  administra- 
tion of  the  said  Government  by  virtue  of  the 
said  power  and  authority  so  given  and  confirmed 
to  him  as  aforesaid ;  and  being  in  the  exercise 
thereof,  Cap.  Ingoldsby  in  January,  1690  did 
demand  of  the  said  Leisler,  Possession  of  the 
fort  at  New  York,  without  Producing  any  legal 
authority  for  such  demand ;  but  the  said  Leisler 
(pursuant  to  the  Trust  in  him  reposed)  refused  to 
surrender  to  the  said  Capt"  Ingoldsby  the  said 
forts,  and  kept  possession  thereof  till  March  then 
following. 

4th.  that  in  the  said  month  of  March,  Coll.  Henry 
Slaughter  (being  by  their  majesties  constituted 
Cap"  General,  and  Governor  in  chief  of  the  said 
province)  arrived  at  New  York ;  and  as  soon  as 
Capt"  Leisler  had  received  certain  notice  of  his 
arrival,  he  took  immediate  care  for  delivering  up 
the  said  fort  to  the  said  Coll.  Slaughter's  order, 
which  was  accordingly  done  very  early  the  next 
morning. 

5th.  That  the  said  Capt.  Leisler,  Jacob  Milbourn, 
Abraham  Gouverneur  and  several  others,  were  at 
New  York  arraigned,  convicted  and  attainted  of 
high  treason  and  felony,  for  not  delivering  the 
Possession  of  the  said  Fort  to  the  said  Pichard 
Ingoldsby  :  and  the  said  Leisler  and  Milbourn 
were  executed  for  the  same. 

The  Peasons  against  this  bill  pretend,  that  all  the  said 
particulars  are  mistaken  in  matter  of  fact,  as 
appears  by  the  records  of  that  Province. 

Ans.  Were  all  records  in  fact  true,  and  never  in  Par- 
liament to  be  contradicted,  no  attainders  would 
ever  be  there  reversed :  But  for  the  gentleman 
who  opposed  this  bill,  to  produce  copies  of  Records 
(if  any  such  can  now  be  produced)  to  prove  the 


ADMINISTEATION    OF    LEISLER.  359 

truth  of  the  crimes,  viz  :  the  Treason,  Felony, 
&c.  mentioned  in  the  Records,  in  this  he  would 
prove  a  thing  by  itself,  but  the  falsity  of  those 
facts  is  the  thing  in  the  bill  complained  of,  and 
for  which  reason  his  present  maj'^  was  graciously 
pleased  to  give  his  royal  leave,  for  the  bringing 
this  bill  into  Parliament. 
The  state  of  the  case,  (as  it  was  proved  at  New 
York)  is  particularly  thus,  viz :  When  Capt°  Nicholson 
in  Feb^  1688  was  Lieut.  Gover""  of  New  York,  he  had 
an  account  by  Andrew  Greverard,  that  his  present 
Majesty  was  arrived  in  England:  Whereupon  the  said 
Capf*  Nicholson  shew*^  a  great  dislike  to  that  news,  and 
would  do  nothing  in  favor  of  then  Prince  of  Orange's 
interest.  Some  time  after,  Capt"  Nicholson  was  informed 
by  persons  that  came  from  New  England,  that  such  as 
were  well  affected  to  the  protestant  interest,  had  seized 
Sir  Edmund  Andross  the  then  Governor  of  New  Eng- 
land and  New  York,  &c.  and  some  others  in  authority 
under  him,  and  declared  tor  the  then  Prince  of  Orange. 
As  soon  as  Capt.  Nicholson  received  the  news  from  New 
England,  he  turned  the  guns  in  the  fort  upon  the  Town, 
and  called  a  Council  of  Civil  and  Military  Officers,  in 
which  Council  he  then  produced  his  Commission  from 
King  James  and  declared  he  would  stand  by  that  Com- 
mission and  at  the  same  time  he  without  giving  any 
publick  notice  to  that  Council,  privately  dispatched  a 
messenf>;er  for  Eno;land.  Some  short  time  after  this  the 
militia  and  inhabitants  of  New  York,  who  were  well 
affected  to  the  protestant  interest  unanimously  took  and 
seized  upon  the  fort  &  demanded  of  Capt°  Nicholson 
the  keys  thereof;  which  he  did  thereupon  deliver.  The 
militia  and  other  inhabitants  thus  in  arms  declar  d  for 
the  then  Prince  of  Orange  and  protestant  interest ;  and 
the  Captains  of  the  militia  (of  which  Capt"  Leisler  was 
one)  by  turns  commanded  in  the  fort.  Some  thne  after 
this  Capt°  Nicholson  being  at  New  York,  (but  not  act- 
ing in  the  government  then  as  before,  under  the  com- 
mand of  the  militia)  there  came  news  that  King  William 


360  DOCUMENTS  EELATING  TO  THE 

and  Queen  Mary  in  England  were  declar'd  King  and 
Queen  of  England  &c.  Soon  after  which  Capt°  Nichol- 
son left  New  York. 

The  militia  having  (as  before  observed)  the  govern- 
ment in  their  hands,  &  by  some  Ships  (but  not  from 
authority)  receiving  the  Proclamation,  wherein  the 
King  and  Queen  were  proclaimed,  the  Captains  and 
Inhabitants  proclaimed  K.  W.  &  Q.  M.  and  thereupon 
writ  circular  letters  to  all  parts,  to  cliuse  representatives 
for  a  general  assembly  upon  that  juncture,  which  was 
accordingly  done,  and  in  June,  1689,  that  assembly  met, 
and  constituted  Capt.  Leisler  Captain  of  the  fort.,  for 
their  Majesties'  service  till  order  from  their  Majesties. 

In  August  then  following,  that  assembly  met  again  ; 
and  then  constituted  the  said  Capt"  Leisler  Commander 
in  chief  of  the  whole  Province,  till  his  majesty's  pleasure 
should  be  known  in  the  })remises. 

In  the  month  of  December,  1689,  Capt.  Leisler 
being  as  above  commander  in  chief,  there  was  brought 
to  New  York  a  letter  from  his  majesty,  thus  directed, 
(viz)  to  our  trusty  and  well  beloved  Francis  Nicholson, 
Esq""  our  Lieut*^  Gov""  &  Commander  in  chief  of  our  pro- 
vince of  New  York  in  America.  And  in  his  absence  to 
such  as  for  the  time  being,  take  care  for  preserving  the 
peace  and  administring  the  laws  in  our  said  province 
of  New  York  in  America. 

When  this  letter  thus  directed  was  brought  to  the 
fort  at  New  York,  M'.  Frederick  Phillips  and  some 
others  that  were  of  Capt.  Nicholson's  Council  (whilst  he 
had  the  Government)  demanded  from  the  messenger  the 
said  letter,  which  he  refused,  telling  them  that  he 
would  not  be  hanged  for  any  of  them.  But  the  said 
messenger  told  Capt"  Leisler  that  if  he  would  demand 
it,  &  give  a  receipt  for  the  same,  he  should  have  the 
letter,  which  Capt"  Leisler  agreed  to,  and  thereupon 
received  the  said  letter. 

By  virtue  whereof  he  did  continue  in  the  said 
Government  till  Coll.  Slaughter's  arrivall. 

All  this  was  particularly  proved   at  New  York  in 


ADMINISTRATION    OF   LEISLER.  361 

July  last  before  tlie  Commissioners  appointed  by  the 
Court  of  Admiralty ;  the  attorney  general  of  New 
York,  three  of  the  council,  the  Mayor  of  New  York, 
and  three  others  being  the  Commissioners  that  took 
these  depositions,  when  all  pei*sons  whose  interest  it  was 
to  have  disproved  those  particulars  were  fairly  heard. 

Whereas  it  is  pretended,  that  all  but  about  30  de- 
serted Capt.  Leisler  that  night  Coll.  Slaughter  arrived 
at  New  York,  and  the  next  morning  the  rest  delivered 
up  Capt.  Leisler  prisoner :  it  is  positively  to  be  proved 
that  about  300  that  very  morning  by  Leisler's  command 
laid  down  their  arms  and  then  marched  out  of  the  fort. 

Capt""  Ingoldsby  by  his  commission  was  obliged  to 
obey  such  orders  as  he. should  from  time  to  time  receive 
from  his  Maj*^',  and  Coll.  Slaughter  (the  Governor) 
or  the  Commander  in  Chief  for  the  time  being. 

Capt"  Ingoldsby  arrived  at  New  York  about  six 
weeks  before  Coll.  Slaughter  and  (as  before  observed) 
without  producing  any  authorit}'  under  Coll.  Slaughter  s 
hand  demanded  of  Leisler  y^  possession  of  y®  fort. 

It's  humbly  conceived  before  the  arrival  of  Slaughter 
within  that  province,  of  which  he  was  constituted 
Governour ;  Capt.  Ingoldesby  was  obliged  to  obey 
the  orders  of  Capt.  Leisler,  and  not  Capt.  Leisler 
subject  to  the  command  of  Capt  Ingoldesby  for  Coll. 
Slaughter  having  not  before  his  arrival  at  New  York, 
under  his  hand  and  seal  given  any  authority  to  Capt. 
Ingoldsby  to  demand  that  fort  (not  as  is  humbly  con- 
ceived legally  could  till  his  arrival  within  that  Province) 
Capt  Leisler  being  the  Commander  in  chief  at  New 
York.  Ingoldesby  by  his  own  commission  was  obliged 
to  obey  Capt°  Leisler  s  orders  ;  so  that  whereas  Leisler 
and  others  were  tryed,  convicted  and  executed,  as  tray- 
toi-s  for  not  delivering  the  fort  to  Capt  Ingoldsby,  It's 
humbly  conceived  that  had  Cai)t"  Ingoldesby  (before  the 
ari'iyal  of  Col°  Slaughter  at  New  York)  been  arraigned 
of  high  Treason  for  huing  siege  against  that  fort  when 
Capt  Leisler  was  then  there,  as  before,  commander  in 
chief  of  the  Province  ;  it  might  have  gone  in  strictness 


362  DOCUMENTS    RELATING    TO    THE 

of  law,  hard  against  Capt  Ingoldsby,  seeing  in  his  so 
laying  siege  he  waged  war  against  the  commander  in 
chief  of  that  Province  to  whose  orders  (before  Coll. 
Slaughter's  arrival)  by  the  express  word  of  his  com- 
mission he  owed  subjection.  But  this  very  Capf" 
Ingoldsby,  who  with  several  before  Coll.  Slaughter's 
arrival  at  New  York  were  in  arms  against  the  fort, 
were  some  of  the  very  judges  before  whom  Capt°  Leisler 
and  the  rest  were  tried,  convicted,  and  condemned  as 
traitors  for  the  (pretended)  crimes  aforesaid. 

As  for  the  murder  pretended  to  be  committed  by 
Gouverneur  in  defense  of  the  Fort  against  Capt.  In- 
goldesby,  if  any  persons  were  killed  in  that  defence, 
before  Coll.  Slaughter  legally  demanded  the  Fort,  its 
humbly  conceived  that  the  Blood  of  him  and  of  all 
others  so  slain,  ought  properly  and  legally  to  be  charg  d 
against  them  who  were  the  criminals  in  that  war.  And 
whether  the  then  Commander  in  Chief,  &  such  as  acted 
under  his  command  or  Capt""  Ingoldesby  who  (as  before 
observed)  acted  point  blank  against  the  Kings  Com- 
mission, were  the  offenders  therein,  will  soon  appear 
before  the  honorable  members  to  whose  consideration 
the  premises  are  committed. 

The  Premises  considered,  it's  humbly  hoped  that  this 
honourable  house  will  now  pass  the  bill,  and  not  oblige 
those  interested  in  the  passing  thereof,  to  summon  the 
Persons  from  New  York  concerned  in  the  trial  of  Capt" 
Leisler  to  shew  cause  to  the  contrary,  seeing  such  have 
already  been  fully  heard  before  the  aforesaid  Commis- 
sioners at  New  York  in  July  last,  when  and  where  the 
particular  narration  was  fully  proved. 


THE  CASE  OF  MR.  JACOB  LEISLER. 

That  upon  the  late  happy  revolution  the  inhabitants 
of  his  Maj^''''  Province  of  New  York  did  desire  y®  then 
Lieut  Govern''  &  Council  to  declare  for  his  majesty 
which  was  already  done  at  Boston  by  the  inhabitants 
there,  but  y®  same  was  denyed  by  them  Capt"  Nicholson 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  363 

the  Lieut*  Governor  alledofino-  that  he  would  own  no  au- 
thority  but  that  of  y*"  late  King  and  would  stand  by  the 
Commission  he  had  from  s*^  King  as  long  as  he  lived, 
whereupon  the  inhabitants  possessed  themselves  of  the 
fortress  &  examined  y®  stores  leaving  y^  Gov'"  to  consider 
whether  he  would  declare  for  his  Majesty,  which  he  did 
not,  &  Avithdrew  himself  out  of  y"  government  y®  in- 
habitants thereupon  in  general  assembly  appointed 
Capt"  Leisler  first  Capt.  of  y^  Fort  and  afterwards 
Commander  in  Chiefs  untill  his  Maj*'*^^^  order  should 
arrive,  who  caused  their  majesties  authority  over  said 
province  to  be  declared  and  built  severall  Fortifications 
and  so  continued  till  one  Mr.  Riggs  arrived  from  Eng- 
land with  a  warrant  from  his  Maj^'^^  directed  to  Francis 
Nicholson  and  in  his  absence  to  such  as  for  y®  time 
being  take  care  for  y*  preserving  of  y®  peace  and  ad- 
ministration of  y®  laws  in  y®  s''  province  Capt°  Nicholson 
having  in  a  manner  aforesaid  deserted  y®  government  & 
Capt.  Leisler  then  Commander  in  chief  it  was  resolved 
that  the  execution  of  y®  s^  warrant  belonged  unto  him 
which  he  accordingly  did  untill  the  28th  Jan^  1690 
when  Capf"  Ingoldsby  arrived  from  England  with  some 
soldiers  who  demanded  the  Possession  of  s*^  fort  without 
producing  any  authority  from  his  Maj"®*,  or  Col" 
Sloughter  the  then  appointed  Governor  from  whom  he 
parted  at  Sea  &  therefore  was  denyed  y®  same  until  y® 
Gov"  arrival  or  his  Maj^'®^  Commands  that  thereupon 
the  said  Ingoldsby  together  with  Mr.  Dudley,  Philipse, 
Cortlandt  and  others  did  in  a  dreadfuU  &  hostile  assemble 
to  themselves  negroes,  papists,  and  other  2)ersons  &  so  in 
a  warlike  manner  arrayed  laid  close  to  y^  s*^  fort  Mr. 
Dudley  taking  upon  him  to  call  to  himself  some  persons 
which  were  nominated  of  the  Councell  to  collect  and 
with  him  to  set  as  a  Council  before  they  had  their  war- 
rants for  y*  same  or  the  Governor  was  arrived  who  did 
uphold  y*  s**  Ingoldsby  in  his  s*^  unwarrantable  practices 
notwithstanding  the  several  declarations  &  protestations 
made  against  them  by  the  s"^  Leisler  &  so  continued 
in  this   terrible  manner  untill  the  19th  day  of  March 


364  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

then  foll^  when  Col°  Slaughter  arrived,  Capt°  Leisler 
had  no  sooner  notice  thereof  (altho'  late  at  night)  but 
sent  two  gentlemen  to  congratulate  his  arrival  &  offer 
the  fort  &  govern*  to  hira  or  their  maj*'^^  governour  but 
without  being  heard  were  committed  to  y^  common 
goal  y^  next  morning  at  sunrise  Capf"  Leisler  sent  a 
letter  to  y^  s*^  Governor  desiring  him  to  send  some  per- 
sons to  receive  y®  fort  which  he  did  but  immediately 
caused  s^  Leisler  and  others  to  be  committed  to  prison 
&  afterwards  indicted  for  high  treason  &  felony  before 
Joseph  Dudley,  Capf"  lugoldsby  &".  Parties  concerned 
as  aforesaid  for  not  having  delivered  y''  s*^  fort  to  y®  s* 
Ligoldesby  &  his  associates.  M'.  Leisler  and  M"".  Mil- 
borne  demanded  of  y®  judges  whether  y®  authority 
whereby  they  had  acted  was  legall  or  not,  which 
question  they  desired  might  be  resolved  before  they 
pleaded,  but  they  refused  to  resolve  it.  Mr.  Leisler  and 
Milborne  thereupon  alledged  that  before  it  was  resolved 
they  could  not  plead,  but  did  appeal  to  the  Kings 
maj*^^^  desiring  to  be  sent  for  England  which  was  re- 
fused, and  they  were  by  y**  s*^  judges  condemned  as 
mutes  and  afterwards  barbarously  put  to  death  the  six 
other  persons  were  in  like  manner  indicted  &  pleading 
not  guilty  were  brought  in  guilty  for  having  assisted 
Capt°  Leisler  as  aforesaid,  y^  Judges  and  particularly 
M^  Dudley  alledging  that  Leisler  had  no  legall  authori- 
ty at  all. 

[At  the  end  of  a  ruff  (sic)  copy  of  the  above  case  &  mostly  in  the  same 
words,  tho'  appears  to  have  been  intented  (sic)  for  the  house  of  Commons, 
is  the  following.     Du  Simitieee.] 

&  inasmuch  as  his  Maj''^  being  sensible  of  y®  hardship 
of  y*"  case  of  y^  s*^  Jacob  Leisler,  Jacob  Milborne  & 
Abraham  Gouverneur  was  graciously  pleased  to  give 
leave  to  bring  y^  s^  bill  in  parliament  &  signed  y**  same 
before  it  was  brought  into  the  house  of  Lords  the  s*^ 
Jacob  Leisler  Jacob  Milborne  Ab™  Gouverneur  humbly 
hope  the  s*^  bill  will  be  jjermitted  to  pass  this  honorable 
house  and  y®  rather  because  by  reasons  of  the  oppres- 
sions   before    mentioned  they    are    reduced   to   such 


ADMINISTRATION   OF   LEISLER.  365 

bill  should  not  pass  this  ses- 
sion they  will  not  be  capable  of  raising  money  to  pay 
the  fees  for  passing  it  another  time. 


LOYALTY    VINDICATED. 

[In  the  year  1698,  a  tract  was  printed  and  published  in  New  York, 
entitliid — "  A  Letter  from  a  Gentleman  of  the  City  of  New-Yorlc  to  Another, 
Concerning  the  Troubles  which  happen'd  in  that  Province  in  the  Time  of 
the  late  Happy  Revolution.  Printed  and  Sold  by  William  Bradfurd,  at  the 
Sign  of  the  Bible  in  Neic-  YorJc,  1698."  The  letter  was  dated  •'  Jfew  York, 
December  31,  1697,"  and  the  pages  following  it  give  the  King's  Letter  to 
the  Lieutenant  Governor  Nicholson,  etc.,  dated  30  July,  1689,  to  which 
succeed  (a.)  The  Resolves  of  the  House  of  Representatives  dated  April  17, 
1691,  signed  Ja:  Graham,  Speaker,  (b.)  An  Address  to  his  Excellency 
Colonel  Sloughter,  dated  April  17,  1691,  and  signed  Ja:  Graham,  Speaker. 
(c.)  "At  the  Court  at  Whitehall,  the  17th  of  March,  1691,"— the  Queen's 
Order  that  the  Estates  of  Jacob  Leysler  and  Jacob  Milborne  be  restored  to 
their  families,  siirned  Richard  Colinge. 

This  publication  had  the  official  sanction  of  Governor  Fletcher  and  his 
Council.  "  At  a  Ooimcil  held  at  New  York,  4th  March,  1698.  Tlie  01.  of 
the  Council  laid  before  this  Board  a  Letter  relating  some  transactions  in 
this  Province  found  at  the  printer's  wliich  was  ordered  to  be  read.  The 
Council  are  unanimously  of  opinion  that  it  contains  nothing  but  truth, 
and  that  it  ought  to  be  printed  and  published  with  the  other  papers  men- 
foned  therein  and  do  desire  his  Excellency  will  give  direccons  for  the 
printing  thereof  accordingly."  Council  Minutes :  VIIL,  31.  quoted  by  Dr. 
O'Callaghan  in  N.  7.  Col.  Doc,  IV.,  315,  note. 

The  '■'Letter''''  was  rei)rinted  in  1849,  in  the  Documentary  History  of 
the  State  of  New  YorTc,  Vol.  II.,  425-35.  Of  the  accompanying  docu- 
ments, the  King's  letter  was  printed  in  the  iV.  Y.  Col.  Doc,  Vol.  III., 
606— the  Resolves  and  Address  of  April  17,  1691,  are  in  the  Journal  of  the 
General  Assembly,  Vol.  I.,  5-6, — and  the  Queen's  Order  of  17th  March, 
1691,  in  the  N.  Y.  Col.  Doc,  Vol.  IIL,  827. 

The  following  tract  in  reply  is  now  for  the  first  time  reprinted,  from 
the  original  in  the  Lib>ary  of  the  Society,  entitled 

Loyalty  Vindicated;  being  an  Answer  to  a  Late  False,  Seditious  and 
Sciindalous  Pamphlet,  entituled,  "J.  Letter  from  a  Gent.,  Etc.''''  Pub- 
lished for  the  Sake  of  Truth  and  Justice,  by  a  Hearty  Lover  of  King 
William  and  the  Protestant  Religion.    4:to.  pp.  28.     Boston,  1698.  ] 

Loyalty  Vindicated  from  the  Reflections  of  a  Virulent 
PamjMet  called  [A  Letter  from  a  Gentleman  of 
Neiv  York.,  concerning  the  troubles  which  happened 
in  that  Province^  in  the  time  of  the  late  happy 
Revolution]  wherein  the  Libellous  Author  falsely 
scandalises  those  Loyal  Gentlemen.,  who  couragious- 
ly  threiv  off  the  absolute  Slavery  that  Province  then 


366  DOCUMENTS    RELATING   TO    THE 

lay  under :  and  Declared  for  His  present  Majesty^ 
the  Protestant  Religion,  and  the  English  Laws. 

Although  to  name  but  the  Authors  of  this  Pamphlet, 
to  give  account  of  the  time,  manner,  and  design  of  its 
Publication,  would  sufficiently  confute  it ;  and  were  it 
all  Truth,  take  away  its  Credit :  Yet  I  shall  first  by 
plain  proof  of  Fact  and  Reason,  disabuse  whom  it  may 
have  imposed  on  ;  and  then  expose  the  Seducers  them- 
selves whose  corrupt  minds  gave  birth  to  this  Ignis  fat- 
uus. 

I  know  the  Authors  have  triumphed,  that  their  Libel 
hath  not  hitherto  been  answered,  but  they  will  have  but 
little  cause,  when  they  consider  it  required  some  time  to 
recover  the  damp  and  stunn  given  to  honest  minds,  by 
the  late  corrupt  Government  of  New  York  that  publisht 
it :  and  some  time  will  always  be  naturally  taken  up  for 
the  exults  of  joy  ;  that  truth  and  honesty  will  now  have 
their  turn  of  being  protected  by  Authority. 

It  was  with  great  dread  known,  that  the  late  King 
James  was  bound  in  Conscience  to  indeavour  to  Damn 
the  English  Nation  to  Popery  and  Slavery,  and  there- 
fore no  wonder  (since  he  made  such  large  steps  towards 
it  in  his  Kingdom's)  that  he  took  a  particular  care  of 
this  Province,  of  which  he  was  Proprietor,  &  at  one 
jump  leapt  over  all  the  bounds,  &  Laws  oi English  Right 
and  Government ;  and  appointed  a  Governour  of  this 
Province  of  New  York,  who  (although  he  was  a  person 
of  large  indowments  of  mind  yet)  gave  active  Obedience 
to  his  Prince  without  reserve  ;  and  accepted  of  a  Com- 
mission now  on  record  in  the  Secretarys  Office,  giving 
him  power  with  consent  of  any  Seven  of  his  Council  to 
make  Laws  and  to  raise  Taxes  (as  the  French  King  doth) 
without  consent  of  the  People,  (for  the  Council  are  no 
body,  but  whom  pleases  to  name,  and  therefore  could 
represent  nothing  but  the  Kings  pleasure).  Hereby 
the  will  of  the  Prince  became  the  Law;  and  the 
estates  of  the  subjects  became  the  Kings  property.  And 
this  Governour  and  Council  were  the  tools  to  inslave 
their  Country,  who  pursuant  to  their  Commission  did 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  367 

make  Laws  and  Assessed  Taxes  accordingly,  without  any 
Representatives  of  the  People,  as  appears  by  the  E-ecords 
of  the  Council  book. 

This  French  Government  being  thus  (by  Commis- 
sion) introduced,  it  Avas  natural  that  Papists  should  be 
employed  in  the  highest  Trusts  ;  such  as  the  Council, 
the  Revenue,  and  the  Military  Forces  ;  and  since  no 
Law  was  left  alive  to  make  them  unqualifyed,  therefore 
this  obedient  Governour  admitted  major  Brockholse  and 
major  Baxter  into  the  Council ;  Matthew  Plowman  to 
be  Collector  of  the  Revenue,  and  said  Baxter  and  Russel 
to  Command  Military  Forces ;  all  professed  Papists  to 
assist  in  making  Arbitrary  Placats,  and  forcing  obedi- 
ence to  them  from  a  Protestant  free  People. 

This  was  the  condition  of  Neiv  York,  the  Slavery 
and  Popery  that  it  lay  under,  until  the  Hand  of  Hea- 
ven sent  the  glorious  King  WILLIAM  to  break  those 
chains,  which  would  otherwise  have  fetter  d  all  Europe. 
And  these  were  the  reasons  that  moved  the  Gentlemen 
concerned  in  the  Revolution  of  New  York,  to  be  early 
in  shaking  off  their  Tyrants,  and  declaring  for  their 
Deliverer. 

These  things  premised  do  make  way  for  the  answer 
to  the  bold  Assertions  of  the  Libeller,  who  had  the 
Author  Printed  the  Letter  ten  years  before,  viz.  the 
time  of  the  Revolution,  he  would  have  come  under  the 
penalty  of  spreading  false  News,  which  he  in  particular 
knows,  in  Scotland  is  calfd  Leesing,  and  deserves  the 
death  calFd  the  Maiden. 

[Pag.  3]  *  In  the  third  page  which  is  the  first  of  the 
Letter,  he  declares  that  Jacob  Leisler  and  his  accomijlices 
committed  great  disorders  iti  the  devolution.  And  was 
ever  Revolution  made  without  them  ?  What,  must  the 
noxious  humours  of  the  body  natural,  be  loosned  and 
put  a  float,  and  very  often  with  pangs  and  gripes,  before 
the  Medicament  can  officiate  the  discharged  &  must  not 
the  body  politick  suffer  a.  Convulsion  to  pluck  up  Spir- 

[*  Documentary  nistory  of  Kew  York,  II.  426.] 


368  DOCUMENTS  EELATING  TO  THE 

itual  and  Temporal  Tyranny  that  was  taking  root  in  it? 
But  I  pray  explain  yourself,  was  not  the  Revolution  it 
self  the  greatest  disorder  that  could  be  given  to  you  and 
the  Jacobite  party  ?  and  therefore  you  need  not  admire 
nor  wonder  that  all  those  that  have  a  good  opinion  of 
the  Revolution,  have  so  likewise  of  Jacob  Leisler,  and 
other  early  Instruments  of  it  in  this  Province :  Nor  is 
it  a  wonder  that  it  should  be  credited,  that  the  persons 
then  in  Commission  in  JVew  York  were  Jacobites^  and 
persons  ill  affected  to  the  Revolution  (which  now  the 
Libeller  dare  not  say  otherwise  than  call  happy)  for  their 
very  Commissions  from  King  James  were  expresly 
contrary  to  Law,  and  their  persons  unqualified  to 
serve  in  any  Capacity  in  any  English  Government  and 
so  that  as  Jacobites  {i.  e.  obeyers  of  King  James's  Arbi- 
trary Government)  and  as  Papists  they  must  naturall}^ 
be  ill  affected  to  the  happy  Revolution  in  England^  and 
implacable  Enemies  to  the  well  wishers  thereof  in  New 
York.  The  proof  of  this  appears  by  the  Printed  account 
of  the  State  of  the  Government  of  Neiv  York^  attested 
by  the  Records  of  ^iv  Edmund  Andross^  Coll.  Nicholson^ 
Mattheiv  Plowman^  major  Baxter  and  Bartholomew 
JiusseVs  Commissions  ;  which  are  Evidence  undeniable 
and  point  blanck  contrary  to  the  Testimony  of  the  Lib- 
eller, who  calls  himself  a  personal  witness.  But  the 
Author  was  safe  at  the  time  of  Publishing  the  Letter, 
for  it  was  when  the  Province  lay  under  the  calamity 
(more  then  in  any  other  age)  of  Licensing  this  Letter, 
which  gives  Authority  for  the  palliating  of  Vice  with 
false  glosses,  and  of  criminating  the  Actions  of  the  most 
Just  and  Virtuous  and  pious  persons,  and  when  Truth 
and  Innocency  were  striped  of  all  defence  against  the 
malice,  falsehood  and  calumny  of  Col.  Fletcher,  and  his 
complying  Council. 

We  are  told  the  Lieutenant  Governour  and  Council 
were  Protestants^  and  perhaps  they  were  ;  and  so  were 
Frieiid^  Perkins^  Jejferys^  Herbert^  Bishop  of  Chester^ 
and  Brian  Haynes  the  player;    therefore  that  is  no 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  369 

infallible  Test  that  they  were  well  affected  to  the  Rev- 
olution, if  they  had  no  other.  But  they  resolved  There- 
upon to  si(S2^e7id  all  Koman  Catholicks  from  Comitiand 
and  places  of  trust  in  the  Government.  Well  resolved, 
though  they  did  not  perform  it,  as  the  Libeller  after- 
wards owns.  But  what  means  the  word  [^Thereupoii] 
i.  e..  King  James  was  fled  into  France,  the  Prince  of 
Orange  was  Armed  with  considerable  Forces  in  Eng- 
land, and  by  consent  and  voice  of  the  Nation  declared 
their  Deliverer  and  King  :  and  since  King  James  could 
not  stand  by  them,  and  the  Arbitrary  Commissions  he 
had  given  them,  and  Old  England  would  be  sure  to 
Command  Neiv-York  :  Therewpon  they  &c.  No  thanks 
to  them  for  their  Thereupon.  Besides  if  T  am  not  mis- 
taken, the  execution  of  their  Illegal  Commissions  (which 
the}'  held  as  long  as  they  could)  and  their  fear  of  ex- 
asperations they  had  justly  given  to  the  People,  by  being 
Voluntary  slaves  to  King  James  his  Will,  and  Author- 
ised to  make  all  under  them  to  be  likewise  so  :  (as  the 
Devils  would  have  all  men  Damn'd  with  themselves.) 
For'  these  reasons  these  faint  resolves  were  made  and 
ill  executed.  But  we  do  not  find  that  Thereupon  they 
declared  for  the  Prince  of  Orange^  or  the  Protestant 
Keligion.  No,  these  Gentlemen  had  submitted  so  in- 
tirely  to  such  a  blind  Obedience  to  their  Prince  as 
(notwithstanding  their  Profession)  was  never  practised  by 
an}'  Christians,  but  the  Papists  ;  and  think  to  hide  their 
nakedness  by  the  fig  leaf  of  turning  a  single  Papist  out 
of  the  Council,  just  as  their  Master  King  James  did, 
when  the  Prince  of  Orange  was  landing ;  the  Nations 
hearts  alienated  from  him,  and  his  standing  Army  likely 
to  run  over  to  the  Prince  :  Thereupon.,  he  restored  tlie 
Charters  of  Corporations,  and  Magdalen  Colledge  of 
Oxford.,  and  declared  to  call  a  free  Parliament :  Just 
with  the  same  good  will  as  these  New  York  Thereupon- 
men.  [Pag.  4.]  *  But  it  is  notoriously  false  and  known 
to  be  so  by  the  Inhabitants  of  New  York.,  that  There- 
upon these  disbanded  Pa})ists  forthwith  left  the  Prov- 

[*  Documentary  History  0/ New  York,  II.  426.] 
24 


370  DOCUMENTS    RELATING    TO    THE 

ince :  For  Baxter  stay'd  here  several  Moneths,  not  "know- 
ing whether  it  was  a  real  Revolution  or  no;  and 
Russel  stay'd  and  dyed  in  Neiv  YorJc^  but  Ploivma?? 
continued  fix'd  in  the  greatest  Trust  of  Collector  of 
the  Revenue,  being  intrusted  by  the  Protestant  Lieu- 
tenant Governour  and  Council  with  the  sinews  of  War 
in  his  management,  who  would  be  sure  as  a  strict  I^a- 
pist  to  employ  it  in  the  service  of  a  Pj^otesfant  Revolu- 
tion, from  the  same  good  affection  with  themselves. 

To  proceed,  this  Libeller  names  three  Dutch  Gentle- 
men of  their  Council,  and  tells  you,  that  hut  two  of  them 
were  most  affectionate  to  the  Royal  house  of  Orange, 
although  Mr.  Phillips  (I  believe)  had  the  same  affec- 
tion with  the  rest :  but  the  Libeller  never  tells  you,  that 
any  of  them  were  pleased  that  the  Prince  of  Orange^ 
had  rescued  from  ruine  our  English  Laws,  Liberties  and 
i^rotestant  Religion,  and  was  become  a  Royal  English 
King :  which  was  but  a  small  reward  to  Him  for  the 
Blessing  it  gave  us :  he  only  tells  us,  that  as  Dutch- 
men they  loved  the  Royal  house  of  Orange :  So  I  pre- 
sume the  late  King  Ja.nies  doth,  being  tyed  by  blood 
thereto;  although  he  wishes  him  far  enough  from 
England.  I  suppose  those  Dutch  Gentlemen  will  give 
the  Libeller  few  thanks  for  his  remarks  on  them.  He 
adds,  that  the  said  Lieutenant  Gove7^nour  and  Council 
Conve7ied  to  their  Assistance.,  all  the  Justices  of  the  Peace 
and  Civil  Magistrates.,  and  Military  Officers.  But  they 
had  quite  forgot  the  English  Constitution  of  calling  the 
Representatives  of  the  People :  and  whereas  several  of 
this  Convention  were  the  Persons  that  were  pitched 
upon,  and  thought  fit  by  the  then  Arbitrary  Government 
to  have  Commission,  Office  and  Power  to  enslave  the 
subject.  No  wonder  the  People  did  not  think  themselves 
safe  in  their  hands,  to  be  managed  by  the  major  Vote  of 
such  a  Convention. 

Neither  was  the  first  thing  they  ordered,  viz.  Fortify- 
ing the  City  of  New  York,  any  wise  satisfactory  ;  since  it 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLEK.  371 

was  most  proper  that  those  persons  who  gave  occasion  for 
a  Kevolution,  were  most  probable  to  make  themselves 
strong  to  oppose  it.  And  therefore  Coll.  Bayard  made 
Coll.  of  the  Militia  by  King  daines^  was  most  liable  to 
obey  and  execute  King  James's  order,  and  an  unsure 
Security  for  the  Fort ;  Especially  having  so  often  declared 
in  Words,  and  Letters,  under  his  own  hand  to  Mr. 
West  (&c.  Tliat  those  who  were  in  Arms  for  the  Prince 
of  Orange  were  Rebels.  But  it  is  absolutely  false,  that 
Coll.  Bayards  industry  fbrtifyed  the  Fort ;  for  Capt. 
Leisler  opened  the  Well,  which  was  closed  up  ;  he  it 
was  ordered  the  Batteries,  that  were  made  about  the 
Town,  he  mended  the  Breast  works  of  the  Fort,  as  like- 
wise the  Platforms,  and  Powder  Boom  ;  all  which  were 
in  a.  miserable  Condition  :  and  these  great  works  took 
up  near  a  Twelve  Moneths  time,  with  Vigorous  applica- 
tion and  industry  of  the  Inhabitants,  after  Bayard  was 
out  of  the  Power  of  betraying  the  Fort,  which  could 
never  have  been  defended  in  the  posture  he  kept  it,  with 
no  Well  open,  nor  any  covering  for  it,  defence  or  secu- 
rity for  their  Ammunition.  Besides  when  the  Militia 
Forces  were  on  guard  in  the  Fort,  the  Lieutenant  Gov- 
ernour  in  Passion  altered  their  Orders  given  by  their  Offi- 
cers, and  told  them,  if  they  gave  him  any  farther  trouble 
he  would  set  the  City  on  fire.  This  prooved  by  the  Depo- 
sitions of  Albort  Bosch  &  Henry  Coyler.  [Pag.  5.]'-' 
And  for  their  own  sakes  they  appointed  and  continued 
the  Bevenue,  as  being  very  useful  for  men  of  any  design  : 
which  makes  nothing  for  their  cause. 

It  matters  not  what  Letters  were  sent  home  by  the 
Lieutenant  Governour,  for  it  is  plain  neither  Governour 
nor  Council  would  declare  for  the  Prince  of  Orange^ 
pretending  they  wanted  Orders ;  No,  they  wanted  good 
will ;  for  without  Orders  this  Libeller  pretends  they 
turned  out  Baxter  and  Russel  out  of  Commission.  I 
wonder  how  they  dared  to  go  so  far,  and  no  farther. 
But  no  body  but  themselves  know  or  care  whither  they 
wrote  or  no,   for  it  signifyed  nothing,  except  to  excuse 

[*  Documentarij  History  of  New  Yoik,  II.  427.  ] 


372  .         DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

themselves  from  declaring  till  an  answer  came,  and  they 
knew  who  was  uppermost.  I  suppose  they  had  a  mind 
to  stay  to  see  who  got  the  better  in  Ireland^  before  they 
would  declare. 

[Pag.  6.]  *  A  Lying  building  must  have  a  lying 
foundation,  &  therefore  the  Libeller  says,  That  Oapt. 
Leisler  unwilling  to  pay  the  Duty  of  his  Wines  stirred 
up  the  People  to  Behellion.  The  case  was  thus,  the  Po- 
pish Collector  Ploumian  was  then  continued  in  Office, 
and  Capt.  Leisler  did,  even  with  him,  make  entry  in  the 
Custom  house  for  his  Wines,  and  ingaged  to  pay  the 
Customs  to  such  as  should  be  legally  qualified  to  receive 
them ;  which  the  Papist  Plowman  was  not. 

And  now  the  people  being  exasperated  by  the  delay 
of  the  Governour  and  Council  to  declare  for  the  Prince, 
the  greater  body  of  the  Militia  with  their  Officers,  did 
Seize  on  the  Fort,  and  did  send  and  demand  the  Keyes 
from  the  Lieutenant  Governour ;  and  since  they  had 
taken  the  Government  on  them,  they  did  Seize  what  Pub- 
lick  Moneys  they  could  find  ;  and  took  the  Seven  hundred 
Seventy  three  Pounds  from  Coll.  Nicholson^  which  with 
great  prudence  they  did  Expend  for  the  safety  and  de- 
fence of  the  Revolution :  nor  utere  the  People  Drunk  or 
Mad :  for  no  Man,  Woman,  or  Child,  was  hurt  by  them 
even  in  the  very  Convulsion  of  changing  the  Govern- 
ment ;  nay  the  very  Papists  then  in  Office,  and  others 
who  were  justly  suspected  of  designs  of  betraying  the 
Country  to  King  James's  faithful  Allie,  the  French  King 
had  not  a  hair  hurt,  except  by  the  fright  their  own  guilt 
occasioned  ;  and  these  Pevolutioners  must  either  be  very 
sober  or  loving  in  their  drink,  or  these  Jacobites  had 
never  scap'd  being  Deivitted  by  a  sufficiently  provoked 
People,  who  had  the  Power,  but  more  grace  than  to 
use  it. 

False  Assertions  without  proof  are  sufficiently  an- 
swered  by    denj'ing   them.       This    northern    forehead 

[*  Documentary  History  of  New  York,  II.  428.] 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  373 

answers  himself:  for  the  Libeller  says,  the  people  cry' d 
out  that  they  disowned  all  Government^  and  in  the  next 
line  tells  you,  they  proclaimed  Capt.  Leisler  their  Com- 
mander. Bat  T  suppose,  he  gives  the  contradiction  as  a 
proof  of  the  Peoples  being  drunk  ;  to  be  against  all 
manner  of  Government,  and  choose  a  Governour  in  the 
same  breath.  Tis  likewise  notoriously  false,  that  no 
other  CommissionM  Officer  was  amongst  them  :  for  most 
of  the  Officers  of  the  Militia  of  the  City  joyned  therein : 
But  had  it  been  true,  then  Capt.  Leisler  as  the  only 
Commission  Officer  ought  to  Command  them ;  and  they 
were  just  and  sober  in  their  choice,  as  well  as  prudent 
in  their  Trust  of  so  good  and  faithful  a  Person.  But 
Xho,  fact  of  this  was  false,  for  Capt  Leisler.  though  in- 
strumental in  shaking  off  the  Tja-annical  Government, 
did  not  believe  he  had  a  Title  to  govern  longer  than  the 
Peoples  Besolutions  were  known;  and  therefore,  circular 
Letters  were  carryed  by  Coll.  Depeyster  and  Capt. 
De  Brayn  to  the  several  Counties  ;  whose  Freeholders 
chose  their  RepresentativCvS,  who  being  met  appointed 
Capt.  Leisler  Commander  in  Chief  under  their  Hands 
and  Seals,  and  appointed  several  to  be  of  his  Council, 
under  the  name  of  a  Committee  of  Safety  to  preserve 
the  Publick  Peace  of  the  Province :  who  did  it  so  effectu- 
ally, that  those  divested  of  the  Governing  power  had  no 
other  harm  done  to  their  persons  ;  and  the  late  Lieu- 
tenant Governour  was  permitted  to  withdraw  himself 
whither  he  pleased.  And  here  I  must  remark  that  he 
fared  much  better  than  Sir  Edmund  Andross  at  Boston., 
who  was  made  close  Prisoner  and  sent  home  to  England.^ 
and  yet  no  man  was  Executed  or  attainted  there  for  that 
act  of  Loyal  Violence. 

Boston  having  proclaimed  King  WILLIAM  and 
Queen  MABY,  and  Netv  York  Fort  and  Government 
possessed  b}'  Loyal  Leisler  and  his  party,  and  the 
Lieutenant  Governour  withdrawn  out  of  the  Province 
then  the  Libeller  saith,  Tliat  the  lute  Council  and  their 
Convention  of  Justices  of  the  Peace  &  Officers.,  had  a 


374  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

great  mind  to  proclaim  the  King  <&  Queen,  whom  they 
never  had  declared  for,  and  we  must  take  his  word  for 
it :  but  he  owns  the  Loyalists  did  proclame  them,  but 
saith,  it  ivas  very  disorderly.  I  observe  whatever  made 
for  the  Revolution,  or  against  the  late  King  (Tames,  is 
very  displeasing  to  the  Scribler :  For  when  the  People 
took  the  Government  out  of  their  Arbitrary  betrayers 
hands,  he  saith,  they  were  drunh  or  mad ;  &  now  the 
proclaiming  of  the  King  &  Queen,  was  very  disorderly, 
in  neither  of  which  he  gives  one  instance :  [Pag.  7.]  * 
But  thank  God,  they  were  proclaimed,  &  their  goodness 
will  pardon  small  disorders  which  were  the  effects  of 
Loyal  Zeal.  Although  the  Jacobites  will  never  forgive 
them  for  it.  Some  of  which  Council  and  Magistrates 
went  to  Coll.  Bayards  house  and  drank  and  rejoyced 
that  Leisler  had  done  what  they  never  could  have  the 
heart  to  do,  nor  made  one  step  towards.  And  we  may 
know  what  kidney  these  drinkers  were  of,  by  whose 
Wine  they  drank :  For  Coll.  Bayard  having  been  a 
complying  tool  all  King  James's  Arbitrary  Peign,  you 
shall  judge  of  the  rest  by  his  opinion  of  the  happy  Rev- 
olution, in  his  letter  to  Mr.  Westoi  the  lUh  oi  January 
1689,90.  Wherein  he  calls  them  Philistines;  calls 
Leisler  and  his  Loyal  party,  the  Arch  Behel  and  his 
hellish  crew ;  wishes  he  had  a  sujfficient  nnniber  to  sup- 
iwess  the  Rebels,  calls  them  usurpers  of  the  Government, 
and  Sir  Edmund  Andross,  his  Excellency,  and  calls  his 
friends  Loyal,  and  the  whole  tenour  of  the  Letter  is  to 
keep  up  King  James  s  title  to  admit  his  Commissions  of 
Government  to  be  of  force,  to  brand  all  that  declared 
for  the  Prince  of  Orange,  with  the  black  name  of  Rebels  ; 
by  which  he  owned  King  James  was  still  in  his  heart, 
and  had  he  power  equal  to  his  will,  would  have  kept 
him  still  on  the  Throne,  and  therefore  we  may  judge  of 
his  and  his  Companies  joy,  on  this  occasion,  and  whose 
Health  they  draiik  :  which,  eight  years  after,  they  tell 
us  was  King  WILLIAM^S  and  Queen  MARYS. 

{*  Documentary  History  of  New  York,  II.,  428-29.] 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  375 

His  Majesties  Proclamation  to  confirm  Sheriffs^  Col- 
lectors, &c.  in  their  Offices,  being  Published,  the  Con- 
vention removed  Mattheiv  Plowman  a  Papist  from  being 
Collector,  but  this  is  now  when  Capt.  Leisler  had  res- 
cued the  Government,  was  possessed  of  the  Fort,  and 
had  proclaimed  King  WILLIAM  and  Queen  MAPY. 
Then  the  Convention  (who  had  done  none  of  these  things 
and  were  angry  at  those  who  did)  they  removed  a  Pap- 
ist from  his  Office,  about  the  middle  of  June^  who  was 
permitted  by  them  to  act  above  two  Moneths  from  the 
time  that  the  Lieutenant  Governour  and  Council  re- 
solved to  remove  Papists  from  Offices  ;  which  (as  the 
Libeller  in  the  first  page  of  his  Letter  saith)  ivas  the  he- 
ginning  of  April :  they  kept  him  in  as  long  as  they 
could,  and  now  to  mend  the  matter,  they  put  others  in 
his  place  of  the  same  principles  as  to  King  James,  of 
which  the  famous  Bayard  aforementioned  was  the  Ping- 
leader.  And  the  Libeller  brags,  that  they  loere  the  first 
in  the  Province  that  took  the  Oaths  to  their  Majesties, 
ap])ointecl  hy  Act  of  Parliament :  It  may  be  true  ;  but 
it  is  as  true,  that  they  were  the  last  and  backwardest  to 
assist  in  the  Revolution,  or  declare  for  the  Prince  of 
Orange,  which  they  never  did  ;  but  afterwards  pursued 
to  death  those  that  had  done  it.  They  were  indeed  most 
forward  to  take  Oaths,  when  they  were  to  gain  by  them, 
and  to  have  the  fingring  of  the  Revenue.  For  the 
carrying  of  the  purse  they  will  deny  their  old  Master 
Kjing  James ;  not  out  of  hatred  to  him,  but  love  to 
Money ;  being  bound  by  solemn  Oath  to  be  true  to  their 
own  interest ;  which  Oath  binds  them  closer  than  any 
Oath  of  Allegiance. 

These  worthy  Commissioners  of  the  Revenue  sate  in 
the  Custom-house,  but  Capt.  Leisler  with  the  Inhabit- 
ants who  had  possession  of  the  Government  and  Fort, 
demanded  of  them  by  what  Authority  they  pretended 
to  act;  who  refusing  to  give  Capt.  Leisler  any  Account 
they  offered  to  turn  him  out  of  the  Custom-house  by 
force ;  on  which  tumult  (made  by  three  Jacobites)  a  guard 


376  DOCUMENTS    RELATING    TO    THE 

of  Inhabitants  from  the  Fort  came  to  defend  their  Cap- 
tain. And  the  People  in  the  Streets  were  so  enraged  at 
Coll.  Bayard  (who  they  knew  was  as  inveterate  as  any 
Papist  against  the  Revolution)  that  they  certainly  had 
tore  him  to  pieces,  had  not  the  good  temper  of  Capt. 
Leider  been  his  protector,  who  was  the  only  person  capa- 
ble of  saving  him  in  that  extremity,  and  favored  his 
escape,  and  let  him  live  to  have  afterwards  a  hand  in 
the  Murdering  his  deliverer :  So  that  the  Violence  of 
Armed  men  and  naked  Swords,  beating  the  Commis- 
sioners from  the  Custom-house,  was  very  modestly 
done,  for  no  man  was  hurt,  not  so  much  as  a  skin  broke 
of  those  who  deserved  the  halter ;  but  they  are  still 
alive ;  some  of  them  to  watch  another  occasion  to  be- 
tray their  Country,  when  they  can  get  a  Popish  King  of 
Engkmd  to  assist  them. 

[Pag.  8.]  *  Captain  Leisler  finding  several  Papists 
and  false  Protestants  in  the  Town,  like  a  prudent  Officer 
kept  good  guards,  sent  parties  to  prevent  any  Conspi- 
racy they  might  make  to  resume  the  Government ;  and 
to  preserve  the  Peace  ;  which  was  dayly  attempted  to  be 
broke  by  declaring  for  King  James^  and  his  Governour 
Sir  Edmund  And  joss,  and  clenj'ing  the  Authority  of  the 
People,  and  Capt.  Leisler  intrusted  by  them,  on  which  it 
Avas  wisely  done  of  Capt.  Leisler  to  secure  in  the  Fort 
those  whom  he  found  so  troublesome  to  the  publick 
Peace,  and  as  the  heads  of  them  he  Imprisoned  the 
afore-mentioned  famous  Coll.  Bayard  and  Mr.  Nichols, 
but  without  barbarity  they  were  confined,  and  not  in  a 
nasty  Goal,  but  in  handsome  lodgings,  such  as  now  are 
thought  proper  for  the  Captain  of  the  Guard,  the  Store 
keeper  and  the  Secretary  of  the  Province  to  lodge  and 
keep  Office  in.  It  is  true  that  Coll.  Bayard  was  put 
in  Irons,  as  he  well  deserved  for  his  aversion  to  the  Re- 
volution, disturbing  the  Peace,  and  attacking  Capt. 
Leisler  (then  Commander  in  Chief)  in  the  open  Street, 
as  appears  by  several  credible  Oaths.     Nor  could  it  be 

[*  Uucumentary  Bistary  of  New  York,  II.,  429-30.] 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  377 

safe  to  admit  such  fire  brands  to  Bail ;  and  therefore 
they  were  kept  close  from  doing  mischief,  which  is  the 
part  of  all  good  Governments  to  do,  and  was  most 
necessary  in  this  Revolution. 

Captain  Leisler  with  the  Committee  of  safety  (ap- 
pointed by  the  Representatives  of  the  Freeholders  of 
the  several  Counties  of  the  Province)  ha\ang  published 
their  Declaration  for  the  Prince  of  Orange  the  Protes- 
tant Religion,  and  the  English  Laws  and  Liberties,  they 
thought  it  prudent  to  discriminate  the  Well  affected 
from  the  Enemy,  and  therefore  Summoned  all  the  In- 
habitants of  the  City  to  the  Fort,  to  sign  their  names  to 
such  a  Declaration  as  owned  the  Authority  of  the  Prince 
of  Orange.  And  the  refusers  must  justly  b}'  him  and 
all  mankind  be  deemed  Enemies  to  the  Revolution,  to 
His  Majest}-,  and  their  Country.  And  is  this  a  crime 
to  kno^v  the  Sheep  from  the  Goats,  or  to  take  all  Rea- 
sonable methods  for  the  safety  of  the  then  Government : 
but  the  Libeller  is  angry  at  every  prudent  stejj  was 
taken,  nor  is  he  satisfyed,  although  it  is  above  Seven 
years  since  he  was  gorg'd  with  their  innocent  blood 
which  he  had  a  hand  in  shedding. 

It  is  notoriously  false  that  Capt.  Leider  opposed  the 
Collecting  of  the  Revenue ;  indeed  he  was  not  willing  a 
Papist  should  run  away  with  our  Protestant  Kings 
Mone}',  nor  did  he  think  it  safe  in  Bay  arch'  &c.  hands. 
But  the  Committee  of  safety  (and  not  Capt.  Leisler) 
a[)pointed  Mr.  De  Lanoy  (in  whom  they  durst  confide) 
to  that  trust,  who  received  no  Customs  until  December 
following,  when  his  Majesties  orders  arrived ;  till  then 
he  took  only  notes  from  tlie  Merchants  to  pay  the  Cus- 
toms when  demanded.  And  'tis  well  known  that  Mr. 
DeLaTioy  gave  a  fair  and  true  Accompt  of  his  Receipts 
and  payments  of  the  Customs  to  Governor  Slaughter : 
whereb}-  it  appears  he  had  expended  five  hundred  Pounds 
of  his  own  Money  above  the  Money  of  the  Revenue, 
ibr  the  Kings  Service  and  the  support  of  the  Revolu- 
tion ;  which  Money  is  not  repaid  him  to  this  day  through 


378  DOCUMENTS    RELATING   TO    THE 

the  iniquity  of  some  Jacobites  afore-mentioned,  who 
crept  into  power,  and  who  have  thereby  gratifyecl  their 
revenge  on  men  of  greater  sense  and  Loyalty  than 
themselves. 

On  the  tenth  of  December  one  Riggs  brought  his 
Majesties  Letters  which  were  delivered  to  Capt.  Leisler\ 
as  they  ought  according  to  their  direction  ;  for  Coll. 
Nicholson  (to  whom  they  were  first  directed)  had  with- 
drawn himself  out  of  the  Province,  and  iu  his  absence 
the  Letters  were  directed  to  such  as  for  the  time  being 
took  care  for  the  preservation  of  the  Peace  and  Admin- 
istring  the  laws  ;  [Pag.  9.]  which  was  none  other  but 
Capt.  Leisle)\  who  was  appointed  thereto  by  the  Re- 
presentatives of  the  Freeholders  of  the  several  Countyes 
of  the  Province,  and  had  the  Command  of  the  Fort ; 
nor  could  those  who  called  themselves  of  the  Council  be 
intituled  thereto,  for  they  were  the  Persons  that  were 
made  use  of  in  the  late  Arbitrary  and  Tyrannical  Gov- 
ernment, to  the  over-turning  of  all  Laws,  and  Civil 
Rights,  and  who  gave  Occasion  for  the  Revolution  in 
New  York^  and  did  never  declare  for  the  Prince  of 
Orange. 

These  Letters  from  His  Majesty  fully  confirming 
Capt.  Leister  in  the  Government,  whereto  he  was  chosen 
by  the  Peo|)le's  Representatives ;  he  indeavoured  to  ex- 
ecute his  trust  faithfully,  and  on  such  an  Emergency  it 
was  the  greatest  wisdom  and  prudence  to  find  Money  to 
support  the  Government,  which  he  did  as  regularly  as 
the  time  would  permit,  by  and  with  the  consent  of  the 
General  Assembly  of  the  Province  fairly  chosen  by  the 
Freeholders ;  this  which  seducer  falsely  insinuates  were 
only  Selected  and  Appointed  by  Capt.  Leisler.  And  by 
and  with  their  advice  and  consent  Taxes  were  raised  and 
properly  applyed.  And  'tis  observable  the  Libeller  tells 
us,  that  Oap)t.  Leisler  applyed  these  Sums  to  his  own  pri- 
vate use,  and  yet  the  very  next  words  tells  us,  it  was  to 
maintain  said  disorders^  allowing  private  men  Eighteen 


ADMINISTRATION    OF   LEISLER.  did 

Pence  per  day :  by  disorders  he  means  the  Government 
reposed  by  the  People  and  confirmed  by  King  WILLIAM 
in  Capt.  Leisler  which  had  disordered  and  routed  the 
former  Slas^ery  the  People  lay  under;  for  it  was  disor- 
der to  none  but  Papists  and  Jacobites.  And  the 
Eighteen  pence  a  day  was  for  the  private  use  of  the 
private  men  to  whom  it  was  paid,  for  their  subsistence 
in  defending  the  Government :  and  their  defence  was  in- 
deed of  private  use  to  Capt.  Leisler^  as  comprehended 
in  the  Publick  general  good  thereof:  But  the  Revenue 
was  not  sufficient  to  defray  so  great  a  charge,  had  not 
Capt  Leisler  expended  great  Sums  out  of  his  own  pri- 
vate Estate,  as  others  concerned  with  him  likewise  did, 
for  which  he  was  repayed  with  a  barbarous  Death, 
through  the  means  of  men  who  will  never  venture  their 
Lives  or  Estates  to  serve  their  Prince,  Country,  or  Pro- 
testant Keligion. 

[Pag.  10.]  *  Nor  could  Coll.  Bayard  and  Mr.  Nichols 
complain  of  their  aforementioned  confinement  in  the 
Fort,  since  they  would  fly  in  the  face  of  Government, 
and  give  such  vent  to  their  invenomed  passions  as 
appears  by  the  Record  of  their  Committment,  and  Coll. 
Bayards  confession  in  his  Petition  to  Capt.  Leisler. 

But  it  is  point  blanck  a  lye,  nor  was  it  ever,  or  can 
be  proved  that  Capt.  Leisler  gave  directions  to  any  man 
to  p}lunder  Coll.  Bayards  house.,  nor  was  any  thing  of 
that  sort  done  by  his  order  to  any  house,  but  Commands 
given  to  the  contrary,  and  the  Souldiers  were  compelled 
to  restore  what  could  be  made  appear  they  had  forcibly 
taken  from  any  man.  Even  so  small  a  matter  as  a  Hat 
taken  out  of  the  house  of  Mr.  Lambert^  was  restored  to 
him. 

Coll.  Cortland  and  others  might  leave  their  houses 
and  families,  but  they  would  have  had  no  occasion  for 
so  doing  had  they  peaceably  and  quietly  minded  their 
own  affairs  and  submitted  to  the  Government ;    for  all 

[*  Documentary  History  of  Neto  York,  II.,  431.] 


380  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

such  had  no    manner  of  disturbance  given  them,  but 
were  protected. 

[Pag.  11.]  *  The  Protestant  Ministers  the  Libeller 
saith,  could  not  scape  Capt.  Leislers  Malice  and  Cruelty  : 
I  am  afraid  those  Ministers  he  mentioned,  were  Popish 
Trumpets,  to  Preach  \\])  the  damn'd  Doctrins  of  Pas- 
sive Obedience^  and  Non  Besistance^  and  to  noise  in  our 
Ears  with  their  accursed  breath,  that  we  ought  patiently 
to  hold  our  Protestant  Throats  to  he  cut  hy  the  Command 
of  a  Popish  King :  and  when  Capt.  Leisler  with  his 
friends  had  taken  hold  of  that  wonderful  Deliverance 
oifered  immediately  from  God  to  Kedeem  His  People 
irom  Slavery  upon  Earth,  and  Popish  Damnation  in 
Hell ;  to  have  false  Priests  of  Baal  get  up,  and  use  their 
wicked  Eloquence  to  make  the  People  believe  a  lye,  even 
in  the  house  of  the  God  of  Truth  ;  and  from  the  Pulpit, 
to  tell  these  Captains  of  our  Temporal  Salvation  to  their 
faces,  that  being  faithful  to  their  God,  their  Country, 
and  their  Laws,  in  the  defence  of  the  Holy  Protestant 
Peligion,  and  the  Rights  and  Liberties  of  English 
men,  and  their  thankful  declaring  for  the  most  glorious 
Prince  upon  Earth  their  Deliverer  :  was  the  blackest  of 
Treason  and  Rebellion.  Such  Apostasy  and  base 
Treachery  hath  deserved,  and  often  met  with  severer  re- 
bukes than  the  friendly  Verbal  admonition  given  by 
Capt.  Leisler  to  the  blind  Seer,  and  had  nothing  of  the 
Malice  and  Cruelty  in  it  of  the  Libeller,  who  wrote  so 
false  a  Pamphlet :  and  so  the  other  time-serving  Priests 
(who  were  Protestant  shooing  horns  to  draw  on  Popery) 
might  have  been  more  quiet,  and  left  the  result  of  the 
Revolution  to  Divine  Providence,  and  not  pass  such 
hard  Censures  as  to  attaint  blood  and  accuse  of  Rebel- 
lion, all  that  would  accept  of  Gods  deliverance  from  the 
two  greatest  plagues  of  mankind,  Popery  and  Slavery. 
But  I  hope  they  have  repented  and  will  be  saved,  other- 
wise whilst  they  Preach  to  others  they  themselves  will  he 
cast  away. 

[*  Documentary  History  of  New  York,  II.,  4  .1-32.] 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  381 

'Tis  true  Capt.  Leisler  sent  to  the  Merchants  of  the 
ToMMi  to  supply  the  Garrison  with  Provisions  and  other 
necessaries,  and  sent  without  distinction  to  all  People 
who  had  Stores  ;  otherwise  the  Garrison  might  have 
perished :  but  he  honestly  gave  them  Credit  in  the 
Kings  Books,  and  they  have  since  (for  the  greatest  part) 
been  satisfyed  ;  and  Capt.  Leisler  (as  he  ought)  did  or- 
der forcibly  to  break  their  Ware-houses  open,  where  they 
were  refractory,  and  refused  on  so  great  Emergency  to 
afford  support  to  the  Government ;  but  exact  Accompts 
were  kept  of  all  such  goods,  and  Entries  made  in  Books 
kept  for  that  purpose ;  so  that  it  was  not  plunder,  (as 
the  Libeller  falsely  calls  it)  but  they  were  to  be  satis- 
fyed, and  paid  for  the  same.  And  I  believe  it  was  never 
knoAVTi  in  the  Memory  of  man,  that  ever  a  Bevolution, 
or  change  of  Government,  was  more  regular  :  or  where 
Military  power  would  not  force  Victuals  where  it  was 
denyed  them,  when  they  wanted  it :  and  therefore  it  was 
for  the  special  Service  of  King  WILLIAM  and  Queen 
MAHY,  to  keep  alive  those  that  were  the  only  persons 
in  that  Province,  who  declared  early  for  Them,  and 
owned  Their  Authority.  Nor  can  any  proof  upon 
Earth  be  brought  (except  such  as  the  Libeller)  that  one 
Farthings  Value  of  goods  was  ever  converted  to  the 
private  use  of  Capt.  Leisler^  or  Transported  by  him  to 
the  West  Indies^  but  the  imposture  of  the  whole  book 
depends  on  such  positive  falsehoods. 

[Pag.  12.]  *  The  Accompt  of  Thirteen  Thousand 
nine  hundred  fifty  nine  Pounds  of  damages  done  the 
Province  is  made  up  by  the  Libeller  himself;  for  no 
man  living  of  truth,  hath  ever  demonstrated  that  Capt. 
Leisler  or  his  friends,  evef  made  pillage  of  any  man's 
Estate,  but  I  believe  the  Libeller  reckons  that  he  and 
his  Jacobite  party  had  so  much  damage  by  the  Revolu- 
tion, which  they  might  Arbitrarily  have  extorted  from 
the  King's  good  Subjects,  if  it  had  not  happened.  Good 
damages  !   which  I  am  glad  of  with  all  my  heart.     At 

[•  Documentary  History  of  New  York,  II.,  432-38.] 


382  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

this  rate  pray  what  damages  had  the  Popish  Clergy  of 
England  and  Ireland^  by  King  WILLIAMS  hindering 
their  being  restored  to  Ahhys^  Monastery s^  and  Peter 
Pence ;  but  it  is  better  that  the  Jacohites  should  suffer 
damage  of  their  Estates  and  Lives  too,  than  an  English 
Protestant  People  should  have  the  damage  of  loosing 
their  Laws  and  Peligion,  their  Properties  and  their 
Souls.  And  as  for  Coll.  Willets  losses,  which  the  Libel- 
ler magnifies,  he  could  not  })ut  a  particular  Value  on 
them,  they  were  so  small.  Had  they  been  considerable 
he  would  since  have  made  a  particular  complaint,  to 
have  reparation,  which  he  never  did,  nor  had  occasion 
for;  but  had  he  been  ruined  he  would  not  have  been 
pittyed  by  good  men,  because  he  so  far  forgot  that  he 
was  an  English  man  and  Protestant :  that  he  Executed 
an  Illegal  Commission,  and  raised  Forces  to  destroy  all 
those  that  declared  for  our  Deliverer,  that  we  might  re- 
turn to  our  Vomit,  whicli  was  a  Dog  trick  in  him. 

And  thus  the  Libeller  expatiates  on  Capt.  Leister?, 
Arbitrary  proceedings  over  his  Majesties  Subjects  Persons 
and  Estates,  against  the  fundamental  Laws  of  the  Land  ; 
but  he  should  have  considered  that  all  the  fundamental 
Laws  of  the  Land  were  wholly  subverted  and  trampled 
upon  by  the  Hellish,  Popish,  Arbitrary  Government, 
Established  by  King  James's  Commission  ;  so  that  Capt. 
Leisler  found  no  fundamental  Laws  to  transgress  ;  and 
was  forced  in  discharge  of  his  trust  from  the  People,  and 
by  and  with  the  consent  of  those  appointed  by  their  Re- 
presentatives, to  use  these  violent  methods  which  Heaven 
gave  him  the  power  to  make  use  of  to  restore  those 
fundamental  Laws,  which  were  abolished  by  tools  of  the 
same  temper  with  the  Libeller. 

Major  Ingoldshy  a  Captain  of  a  foot  Company,  ar- 
rives near  two  years  after,  saith  the  Libeller,  And  with 
several  Gentlemen  of  the  Council^  sends  to  Capt.  Leisler, 
that  for  the  preservation  of  the  Peace^  he  might  continue 
to  command  in  the  Fort^  until  Coll.  Slaughter's  Arrival^ 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  383 

and  only  desired  tliat  major  Ingoldesby  and  the  Kings 
Souldiers  anight  he  permitted  to  quarter^  and  refresh 
themselves  in  the  City :  hut  instead  of  complying^  he  in 
passion  told  Mr.  Brooke,  on  his  acquainting  him^  that 
Mr.  Phillips,  Coll.  Bayard,  Coll.  Cortland  ^vere  of  the 
Council.,  that  they  were  Papist  Dogs^  and  if  the  King 
should  send  Three  Thousand  of  them,  he  ivould  cut  them 
off;  and  without  cause  Proclaimed  op)enWar  ;  on  which, 
said  major  Ingoldesby  persivaded  several  of  the  Inhahit- 
ants  to  joy  n  with  him  merely  for  self  preservation.  On 
which  several  great  and  small  Shot  from  the  Fort  hilled 
and  icounded  several  of  His  Majesties  good  Subjects.,  who 
made  no  opposition. 

This  whole  Paragraph  I  shall  shew  to  be  the  great- 
est complication  of  Iniquity,  and  fit  to  be  the  production 
of  a  Monster  begat  by  an  Incubus  on  a  Scotch  Witch, 
who  had  kindled  his  malice  against  Truth  from  the 
flames  he  put  to  the  holy  Bible,  thereby  to  become  the 
Adopted  Son  of  the  father  of  Lyes. 

For  major  Ingoldesby  having  no  Commission,  nor 
Authority  to  Command,  on  his  Arrival,  took  on  him  the 
Title  of  Commander  in  Chief,  usurp VI  a  shew  of  Go- 
vernment, calling  a  Council,  and  Issuing  peremptor}^ 
orders,  as  appears  by  the  Records  of  the  Council  Book : 
nay  quite  contrary  to  the  Romantick  Account  of  the 
Libeller,  he  sent  a  demand  under  his  own  hand,  which  I 
have  seen,  wherein  he  acknowledges  Capt.  Leisters  oifer 
to  him  of  his  own  Houses  in  the  City  for  the  Accommo- 
dation of  himself  and  Officers,  and  to  appoint  fit  Quar- 
ters for  the  Souldiers  ;  which  major  Ingoldesby  under  his 
hand  dcnyes  to  accept  of,  sa\ing,  he  demanded  the  Port 
from  him.,  which  unless  Capt,  Leister  would  deliver  up 
to  him,  he  would  esteem  him  as  an  Enemy  to  King 
WILLIAM  and  Queen  MARY.  I  have  likewise  seen 
Capt.  Leisters  Letter  to  major  Ingoldesby  full  of  Civility, 
and  true  Reason,  wherein  he  ac(|uaints  him,  that  he  held 
the  Fort  and  Commanded  by  Virtue  of  a  trust  reposed 


384  DOCUMENTS    RELATING   TO    THE 

in  him  by  the  People,  and  confirmed  by  His  Majesty,  and 
assuring  him,  that  if  he  had  any  Commission  from  His 
Majesty, or  any  Instruction  or  Order  from  Coll.  SlaugJiter 
appointed  Governour  of  the  Province,  on  his  producing 
it,  The  Fort  should  be  immediately  delivered  to  him, 
but  desired  to  be  excused  from  resigning  his  trust, 
till  he  found  one  qualifyed  and  authorized  to  receive  it 
from  him.  But  this  was  not  satisfaction  to  major  In- 
goldeshy  who  was  prevailed  with  to  take  the  Govern- 
ment on  him  in  opposition  to  Capt.  Leisler^  and  as 
Governour  in  Chief  (although  never  impoweredby  King 
or  People)  he  issues  orders  to  the  several  Counties  to  be 
ready  to  attend  and  assist  in  opposing  Leisler,  and  his 
party  with  Arms  ;  which  was  the  proclaiming  open  War  ; 
and  pursuant  thereto  he  sends  his  Rounds  in  the  night, 
and  ordered  or  permitted  his  Pounds  at  all  hours  to 
pass  the  guards  and  centrys  on  the  Walls  of  the  Fort, 
and  not  to  make  answer,  but  by  reproachful  Language, 
w^hen  challenged  by  them,  in  order  to  provoke  the  draw- 
ing of  blood,  and  ingaging  the  People  in  a  Civil  War : 
and  farther,  major  Ligoldeshy  ordered  all  the  men  under 
his  Command  to  wear  Marks  on  their  Arms,  to  distin- 
guish them  from  those  who  joyned  with  Capt.  Leisler. 

During  this  Revolution  and  Civil  War,  I  am  told  not 
above  two  persons  were  killed,  which  happiness  attended 
the  moderate  temper  of  Capt.  Leisler  and  the  Committee 
of  Safety,  who  could  not  be  raised  to  punish  the  Inso- 
lence of  the  Tory  party,  suitable  to  what  they  gave  just 
occasion  for. 

Soon  after,  viz.  in  March.,  about  a  Month  or  five 
Weeks  after  major  Ingoldeshys  usurpation,  Coll. 
Slaughter  Arrived,  who  Summoned  the  Fort  late  at 
night,  and,  contrary  to  the  Libellers  assertion,  it  was 
never  denyed  to  be  delivered:  but  the  delivery  sus- 
pended till  next  Morning,  it  not  being  proper  (according 
to  Military  Pules)  to  deliver  a  Fort  in  the  night,  and 
then  it  was  Surrendered  by  Capt.  Leisler.^  who  waiting 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  385 

on  the  Captain  General  Coll.  Slaughter^  instead  of 
thanks  for  the  faithful  Service  he  had  done  His  Majesty 
in  defending  the  Fort  and  Province  from  the  French 
(our  professed  Enemies)  and  the  Treachery  of  Papists 
and  Jacohites  amongst  ourselves,  was  immediately  by 
his  order  Seized  with  Mr.  Milhourn^  and  others  of  the 
Loyal  party,  and  bound  over  to  answer  at  the  next 
Supream  Court  of  Judicature ;  where  Capt.  Leisler  and 
Mr.  Milhourn  pleaded  to  the  Jurisdiction  of  the  Court, 
That  whereas  he  was  in  possession  of  the  Government 
by  the  choice  of  the  People,  and  confirmed  in  it  by  the 
Kings  Majesties  Letters,  that  he  was  not  bound  by  Law 
to  answer  for  his  Mai  Administration  in  Government,  to 
any  Court  or  Authority,  but  to  His  Majesty,  who  had 
intrusted  him :  but  this  was  overruled  by  the  Violence 
of  the  Court,  without  reason  or  Law,  and  as  Mutes 
they  were  found  guilty  of  High  Treason  and  Murder ; 
and  although  a  Reprieve  was  granted  them  by  Coll. 
Slaitghter,  untill  His  Majesties  pleasure  should  be  known 
in  the  Matter :  yet  the  Violence  of  the  Jacobite  party 
(of  which  sort  were  most  of  Capt.  Leislers  Judges  and 
Officers  of  the  Court)  was  such  that  they  gave  no  rest 
to  Coll.  Slaughter,  untill  by  their  Importunity  they  pre- 
vailed with  him  to  sign  the  Dead  Warrant.  And  they 
were  Executed  accordingly.  So  that  the  representation 
of  the  matter,  with  an  account  of  their  Reprieve  reached 
His  Majesty  at  the  same  time  with  the  account  of  their 
Execution  and  Death.  So  fell  Capt.  Leisler^  and  Mr. 
Milhou7'n  men  of  known  Integrity,  Honesty  and  Loyalty, 
and  by  a  pretended  course  of  Law,  contrary  to  all  Law 
condemned,  where  their  Judges  were  most  of  them  vio- 
lent Enemies  of  the  happy  Revolution,  and  therefore 
resolved  to  revenge  themselves  on  these  Gentlemen  who 
were  the  most  Early  and  Zealous  Instruments  of  it; 
and  who  had  first  expended  great  part  of  their  Estates, 
and  tlien  suftered  Martyrdom  for  King  WILLIAM  and 
Queen  MARY,  their  Religion  and  Laws.  The  proofs 
and  papers  referred  to  in  this  account  remain  in  the 
hands  of  Mr.  Jacob  Leisler  only  son  of  Capt.  Jacob 
25 


386  DOCUMENTS  EELATING  TO  THE 

Leisler  the  Martyr  to  Jacobite  Mevenge.  The  proof  that 
Capt.  Leisler  was  legally  Govern  our  of  New  York. 
That  major  Ingoldeshy  wia.s  but  a  bear  Captain  of  Foot, 
and  had  no  other  command  in  that  Province,  nor  au- 
thority to  demand  the  Fort  from  Capt.  Leisler ;  The 
proof  that  Capt.  Leisler  did  as  a  good  Subject  deliver 
the  Fort  to  Coll.  Slaughter  upon  demand,  and  his  Jus- 
tification, is  immediately  expressed  in  the  Act  of  Par- 
liament of  England  which  reverses  their  Attainders, 
and  restores  their  Families,  in  Blood  and  Estate. 

So  that  this  is  the  full  and  true  account  of  this 
Tragedy;  New  YorJc  lay  under  the  Curse  of  an  abso- 
lute Government  by  King  James  s  Commission  to  Sir 
Edmund  Andros  ;  the  people  took  courage  on  the  first 
News  of  the  Revolution  in  England^  and  shook  off  the 
Oppressors,  and  declared  for  the  Prince  of  Orange  ;  the 
Lieutenant  Governor,  the  Council,  and  Justices  of  the 
Peace,  which  met  and  calFd  themselves  a  Convention 
(being  Officers  constituted  by  King  James)  would  not 
declare  for  the  Prince  of  Orange  ;  Wherefore  the  people 
did  not  think  themselves  safe  in  their  hands,  but  Seized 
upon  the  Fort,  and  chose  Capt.  Leisler  Commander  of 
the  Fort  until  Circular  Letters  had  procured  a  return  of 
Pepresentatives  of  the  Free  holders  of  the  several  Coun- 
ties of  the  Province,  who  on  their  meeting  making  a 
Declaration  for  His  present  Majesty,  did  under  their 
Hands  and  Seals  constitute  Capt.  Leisler  Commander 
in  Chief  until  the  Kings  pleasure  should  be  known  ;  and 
likewise  appointed  him  a  Council,  by  the  name  of  a 
Committee  of  Safety.  And  in  these  Persons  the  Gov- 
ernment was  lodged,  who  proceeded  to  support  them- 
selves by  the  most  moderate  methods  could  be  devised. 

The  Lieutenant  Governour  hereupon  withdraws  out 
of  the  Province,  major  Ingoldshy  Arrives  with  Author- 
ity over  none  but  his  Foot  Company  ;  and  yet  demands 
the  Fort,  which  Capt.  Leisler  durst  not  deliver  to  him 
without  betraying  his  Trust  both  to  the  King  and  People; 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  387 

major  Ingoldshy  usurps  the  Title  of  Commander  in  Chiefs 
lie  Issues  Orders  and  Warrants  to  the  People  to  rise  in 
Arms  to  assist  him  to  wrest  the  Fort  out  of  Capt.  Leis- 
lers  hands,  and  provokes  Capt.  Leislers  men  in  the  Fort 
to  Acts  of  hostility,  by  which  means  one  or  two  men 
were  accidentally  killed.  Coll.  Slcmgltter  Arrives,  de- 
mands the  Fort,  whi(;h  was  surrendered  to  him  immedi- 
ately ;  the  Persons  of  Capt.  Leisler  and  Mr.  Milhourn 
are  Seiz'd,  and  soon  after  brought  to  Tryall ;  their  plea 
to  the  Jurisdiction  of  the  Court  (which  could  not  by 
Law  try  them  for  Mai  Administration  in  Government) 
violently  over  ruled,  and  they  Condemned  as  Mutes, 
for  High  Treason  and  Murder ;  they  were  Peprieved 
until  His  Majesties  pleasure  should  be  known ;  and 
notwithstanding  the  Reprieve,  the  Warrant  of  Execu- 
tion Signed,  and  they  Executed. 

But  the  Enemies  to  King  WILLIAM,  and  conse- 
quently to  these  Gentlemen,  had  not  sufficiently  grati- 
fied their  malice,  by  these  mens  innocent  blood:  but 
they  labour  in  England  to  get  a  justification  for  them- 
selves, and  a  confirmation  that  the  said  unjust  Judg- 
ment was  according  to  Law ;  and  when  His  Majesty 
w^as  in  Flanders  and  several  Ministers  of  State  were  in 
place  and  trust  in  the  Committee  of  Trade,  which  His 
Majesty  hath  since  thought  fit  to  remove  from  His 
Council  and  their  Offices  :  a  report  was  obtained  from 
the  Committee  of  Trade  affirming  that  these  Loyalists 
were  Condemned  and  Executed  according  to  Law. 
But  however  the  said  Committee  represented  their  Sons 
as  fit  objects  of  Her  Majesties  mercy,  to  be  restored  to 
their  Fathers  Estates ;  which  Her  Majesty  w^as  gra- 
ciously pleased  to  grant.  And  these  malignant  Confed- 
erates so  far  prevailed  with  the  Assembly  of  New  York 
to  compliment  and  flatter  their  new  Governour  Coll. 
Slaughter^  as  to  pass  several  Votes  against  the  whole 
proceedings  of  the  happy  Revolution,  and  to  excuse  the 
barbarous  Severity  of  the  Illegal  Condemnation  and 
bloody  Execution  which  he  had  ordered.     And  this  was 


388  DOCUMENTS    RELATING   TO   THE 

the  State  of  the  Case  until  the  Parliament  of  England 
took  the  matter  into  their  Consideration,  and  the  honor- 
able the  House  of  Commons  in  the  Sixth  and  Seventh 
year  of  His  present  Majesties  Reign  appointed  a  Com- 
mittee to  examine  all  parties  in  relation  to  Capt.  Leis- 
lers  Execution,  where  they  were  heard  by  their  Council 
at  Law,  and  where  Mr.  Dudley  (who  formerlj^  applyed  to 
get  Money  by  Magistracy  and  Government  in  A^ew 
England,  and  set  up  for  a  Judge  in  matters  of  Blood  in 
the  Tryal  of  Capt.  Leisler  at  New  Yo7'k)  was  heard  to 
make  his  defence,  where  his  Cobb- Webb  Eloquence  was 
too  thin  to  put  a  vail  over  so  black  an  Action,  as  created 
horrour  in  the  minds  of  that  Honorable  and  Numerous 
Committee  ;  who  reported  the  matter  fully  to  the  House, 
and  thereupon  an  Act  of  Parliament  passed  the  Poyal 
Assent,  wherein  His  Majesty,  the  Lords,  and  Commons 
of  England  do  recite  the  Legality  of  Capt.  Leislers 
Authority,  and  justifie  his  proceedings  in  the  Govern- 
ment, and  more  especially  his  refusing  to  deliver  the 
Fort  to  major  Ingoldesby,  being  the  Fact  for  which  he 
was  Condemned ;  and  do  absolutely  reverse  the  Attain- 
ders and  restore  the  Blood  and  Estates  of  Capt.  Leisler, 
and  those  persons  Condemned  and  Executed  in  Neiv 
York ;  which  Act  of  Parliament  is  Printed  at  the  end 
of  this  Treatise. 

And  now  after  all,  it  being  about  Eight  years  since 
these  men  dyed,  when  the  Grave  and  Time  should  have 
so  buryed  the  Persons  and  Memories  of  these  good,  but 
unfortunate  Persons,  that  no  Revenge  should  have  room 
to  desire  a  farther  gratification ;  and  when  the  Anni- 
mosities  between  those  of  a  Dutch  extraction  (who  are 
the  most  numerous.  Loyal  and  Sober  Subjects  of  that 
Province)  and  the  few  English  (who  were  most  averse 
and  backward  in  the  Revolution,  but  violent  and  bloody 
in  the  Execution  of  Capt.  Leisler,  as  well  as  the  most 
dissolute  in  their  Morals)  in  this  Province,  had  time  to 
cool,  and  might  by  a  good  Government  have  been  wholly 
heaFd.      After  all,  I  say,  to  have  this  fire  again  blown 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  389 

up,  to  open  these  Wounds  and  to  open  the  Graves  of 
the  Dead,  to  disturb  the  Living  ;  was  such  an  artifice  of 
the  Devil  as  must  give  a  more  than  usual  abhorrence  in 
good  minds ;  which  leads  me  to  give  an  account  of 
the  Occasion,  the  time,  manner,  and  design  of  the 
Publication  of  this  fire  brand  callVl  a  Letter^  and  with- 
all  take  some  notice  of  the  supposed  author. 

It  is  evident  in  Neio  York,  and  will  soon  be  made 
appear  to  His  Majesty,  that  the  late  Government  of 
New  York  under  the  Administration  of  Coll,  Fletcher 
was  a  perfect  sink  of  Corruption.  And  although  he 
was  exalted  to  that  Government  from  a  poor  mean  re- 
fugee of  Ireland  ;  yet  he  soon  forgot  the  hand  that  raised 
him,  and  to  satisfy  his  Soul,  his  Idol  Gain,  he  made  a 
fast  friendship  with  the  few  Papists,  Jacobites,  and  dis- 
solute English  of  Neiv  York,  who  had  opposed  the  Rev- 
olution and  revenged  themselves  on  Capt.  Leisler  ;  and 
who  to  be  supported  in  their  hatred  to  the  Loyal 
Williamites,  and  connived  at  in  their  oj^en  breach  of  all 
the  Acts  of  Trade,  found  great  advantage  to  reward 
Coll.  Fletchers  friendship  by  Presents  from  themselves, 
and  gifts  from  Pirates ;  and  complyed  with  him,  and 
consented  to  all  things  proposed  to  them  by  him  ;  to  the 
squandering  of  the  Kings  Revenue  and  (to  the  great 
dishonour  of  the  King)  destroying  all  conveniences  of  a 
Succeeding  Governour ;  and  disposing  of  all  the  Lands 
in  the  Province,  that  not  one  Inch  is  left  to  be  given  in 
reward  to  any  who  may  by  their  Services  to  His  Ma- 
jest}',  desen-e  ;  or  to  incourage  new  Settlers,  and  that  in 
such  quantities  as  will  wholly  make  it  impossible  ever 
to  People  the  Province ;  giving  to  one  man  Seventy 
Miles  in  length;  and  to  several  Fifty,  Forty  and  Thirty 
Miles  in  length,  and  several  Miles  in  breadth  ;  with 
many  other  unjust,  gross  Mai  Administrations. 

On  this  bottom  Coll.  Fletcher  joj-ned  in  the  mortal 
hatred  to  the  lovers  of  the  Loyal  Leisler ;  and  when 
several  condemned  to  dye  for  their  motions  in  that  Re- 


390  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

volution  were  ordered  by  Her  gracious  Majesty  of 
Sacred  Memory  to  be  discharged,  Coll.  Fletcher  did  it  as 
an  act  of  grace  of  his  own^  and  told  them  that  although 
he  released  them  yet  he  could  call  for  them  when  he 
pleased,  and  hang  them.  And  some  time  after  told 
them.  That  they  dealt  worse  by  him  than  the  Lepers 
cleansed  by  our  Saviour,  some  of  which  returned  to 
thank  him,  but  none  of  them  ever  did,  meaning  none  of 
them  had  given  him  a  wicked  Bribe  or  reward  which  he 
was  used  to  receive.  These  Truths  Mr.  Beehnan  and 
Mr.  Gouverneur  will  attest.  Coll.  Fletcher  likewise  paid 
that  disregard  to  the  Act  of  Parliament  of  England^ 
(Reversing  the  Attainders  and  restoring  Capt.  Leisler 
and  others  condemned,  in  Blood  and  Estate)  that  he  re- 
fused the  WidoAv  Leisler  to  be  repossessed  of  her  Estate  ; 
nor  had  she  that  justice  done  her,  during  Coll.  Fletchers 
Government,  nor  untill  my  Lord  BeUomont  granted  her 
a  Writ  of  Possession ;  which  was  a  year  and  half  after 
she  was  Entituled  to  it  by  Act  of  Parliament  in  Eng- 
land^ Reprinted  at  New  York.  He  likewise  wholly 
discouraged  the  generality  of  those  who  were  active  in 
the  Revolution,  putting  few  or  none  of  them  into  Office, 
or  Employment ;  and  wholly  adhering  to  those  that  gra- 
tifyed  his  Vanity,  Pride,  and  Covetousness.  For  which 
in  return  he  gave  them  countenance  in  all  matters,  as 
well  as  connivance  at  their  unlawful  Trade. 

His  Majesty  having  appointed  the  Earl  of  BeUomont 
Governonr  of  Neiv  York  (whose  great  Honour  and 
Justice  Coll.  Fletcher  both  knew  and  dreaded)  some 
considerable  time  passed  between  his  Patents  being 
passed,  and  his  beginning  his  Voyage,  which  Coll. 
Fletcher  took  the  advantage  of,  therein  to  contrive  me- 
thods so  to  divide  the  People  of  the  Government,  that 
in  Publick  disorder  he  himself  might  escape  having 
strict  Scrutiny  made  into  the  Corruptions  of  his  Gov- 
ernment, he  therefore  not  satisfyed  with  crushing  the 
Loyalists,  during  his  Government,  was  resolved  to  assist 
the  Publishing  this  Libel,  which  might  give  such  an 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  391 

Account  of  the  Revolution  of  New  York^  as  should  Ex- 
asperate to  the  highest  degree,  all  that  were  concerned 
in  it,  and  at  the  same  time  assured  his  Jacobite  party, 
that  it  was  necessar}^  such  a  book  should  be  Licensed, 
to  possess  the  strangers  who  came  with  my  Lord,  with 
such  falsehoods  as  were  useful  to  their  party  ;  my  Lord 
being,  as  he  feared,  inclined  to  favour  whoever  was  well 
inclined  to  the  Loyalty  of  Leisler.  So  that,  as  is  sup- 
posed, one  Mr.  Jamison  was  employed  to  frame  this 
Libel,  who  was  Clerk  of  the  bloody  Court  that  Con- 
demned Leisler ;  a  person  most  in  the  graces  of  Coll. 
Fletcher^  who  was  in  Scotland  condemned  to  dye  for 
Atheism  and  Buriiing  the  Bible,  and  was  banished  to 
New  York  ;  where  he  was  bj^  Contribution  freed  from 
being  a  Servant,  and  permitted  to  teach  School,  and 
being  somewhat  a  Scholar,  and  having  good  natural 
sense  made  the  use  of  his  wicked  parts  to  teach  Blas- 
phemy, and  Atheism,  and  to  ridicule  Sober  Keligion, 
till  he  got  a  E-eputation  amongst  the  dissolute  Church  of 
Migland  men,  whose  Liturgie  he  then  would  and  still 
doth  gabble  over  with  great  seeming  devotion,  and  up- 
lifted eyes  a  few  hours  after  he  had  been  Blaspheming 
Christianity ;  but  his  form  of  saying  the  Common 
Prayer  sufficiently  recommended  him  to  Coll.  Fletcher, 
so  that  the  Secretary  Clarkson  was  prevailed  on  to  make 
him  his  Deputy  for  a  Hundred  Pounds  a  year  Rent ; 
and  Coll.  Fletcher  gave  him  Fifty  Pounds  per  Annum 
Salary  out  of  the  Kings  Revenue  as  Clerk  of  the  Coun- 
cil, and  through  all  his  Government  made  use  of  his  vile 
Service,  and  afterwards  recommended  him  to  the  Earl 
of  Bellomont,  as  one  of  the  honestest  men  in  the  Gov- 
ernment ;  although  at  the  same  time  he  knew  the  said 
Jamison  was  actually  marryed  to  two  Wives  then  liv- 
ing. This  man  so  qualityed  was  intrusted  to  do  this 
piece  of  Service,  but  'tis  believed  the  aforementioned 
Coll.  Bayard  gave  him  some  assistance  in  furnishing 
him  witli  some  Materials,  &  without  doubt  according  to 
orders,  no  falsehood  was  balk'd  that  could  serve  the  cause, 
and  so  this  Libel  was  hammered  out,  in  which  there  is 


392  DOCUMENTS    RELATING   TO    THE 

scarce  a   Paragraph,   but  what   contains  one  or  more 
Scurrilous  Untruths,  which  are  delivered  with  an  High- 
land modesty  and    peremptorily  affirmed  to    be   truth 
without  any  proof,  on  purpose  to  Vilify  the  Transactions 
of  the  Revolution,  and  l^iassacre  over  again  the  Repu- 
tation of  those,  whose   persons  were  murdered   Eight 
years  before  for  their  Loyalty,  and  withal  the  Villany 
proper  to  persons  who  hate  the  present  Government  are 
added  to  this  Account  some  Servile  Votes  of  the  Assem- 
bly of  Neui   York  made  to  flatter  their  new  Governour 
Coll.  Slaughter^  who  signed  these  Loyalists  Warrant  for 
Execution,  and  likewise  is  Printed  an  order  or  report 
(God  knows  how  obtained)  of  the  Committee  of  Trade 
for  Justifying  the  said   Condemnation  and  Execution. 
But  this  Libeller,  contrary  to  his  duty,  to  truth,    alle- 
giance to   His  Majesty,    and  respect  to  Laws    (for  he 
could  not  hide  his  Virulency  to  the  present  Govern- 
ment)   takes  no   notice    of  the    Act   of  Parliament  of 
England  Keversing  the  Attainders  of  these  Condemned 
Gentlemen,    which  gives   the  Lye  to  his   whole  Libel, 
Justifies   Capt.   Leisler  as  Lawful   Governour  of   New 
YorJv^  and  in  full  effect  expresses  that  he  was  basely 
Murdered,   contrary  to  all  Law  and  Reason,  fur  doing 
his  duty  as  His  3Iajesties  Lawful  Governour  of  New 
York;  which  is  the  sence  of  the  words  of  the  said  Act. 
But  the  Libeller  did  as  he  was  ordered,  and  the  book 
raised  the  flame  it  was  designed  to  raise,  and  was  car- 
ryed  to  the  Press  by  Mr,  Brook  (who  although  a  Refugee 
from  Ireland  and  preferred  by  King  WILLIAM  to  be 
Collector  and  Receiver  General  of  the   Customes  and 
Revenue  of  Neiv  York,  and  a  new-comer  thither,  took 
upon  him  to  be  one  of  the  bloody  Judges  of  this  Roy- 
alist ;  but  is  since  for  betraying  his  said  Trust  and  neg- 
lect of  his   duty,  suspended  from  all  his  Employs,  even 
that  of  being  Judge,   and  one  of  the  Council,  by  the 
Right  Honorable  the  Earl  of  Bellomont,  who  was  his 
Security   for  his  Collectors  place  to  the  Commissioners 
of   the  Customs  of  England,   but   could  not   bear    his 
treachery  to  that  Trust  which  he  himself  had  been  In- 


ADMINISTRATION    OF   LEISLER.  393 

strumental  to  advance  him  to.  And  Mr.  Wilson  late 
Sheriff  of  JVew  York  a  hot  headed  despicable  fellow, 
who  to  serve  the  Tory  party,  contrary  to  his  Oath,  made 
a  most  false  Return  of  Assembly  men  to  serve  for  the 
Counties  of  New  Yo?%  and  Orancje  in  the  last  Assembly. 
For  which  palpable  breach  of  his  Oath  and  Trust,  His 
Excellency  the  Earl  of  Bellomont  with  consent  of  the 
Council  suspended  him  from  being  Sheriff  of  Neiv  York. 
But  when  this  Libel  was  so  midwived  to  the  Press  by 
the  Kings  Collector  (who  was  likewise  one  of  the  Coun- 
cil) and  this  foresworn  Sheriff,  Then  Coll.  Fletcher 
calls  the  Council  where  'tis  proposed  (as  appears  by  the 
Minute  of  Council)  that  a  book  being  found  at  the 
Printers,  giving  an  Account  of  the  Revolution  of  JSFeio 
York  and  contained  nothing  but  Truth.  Tis  resolved 
Nemine  contradicente^  that  it  should  be  Printed.  But 
who  were  the  Council  who  consented  to  this  great  piece 
of  Service  to  His  Majesty  ?  Why  Coll.  Fletcher^  who  is 
supposed  to  have  given  orders  for  its  being  Written. 
Coll.  Bayard  of  whom  enough  is  said  plainly  and  trul}^ 
Mr.  Brook  who  carryed  it  to  the  Press  and  was  one  of 
Leislers  Judges  ;  Mr.  Pinhorn^  another  of  Leislers  Judges 
(who  is  since  removed  by  His  Excellency  the  Earl  of 
Bellomont  from  being  Judge  and  of  the  Council,  for 
speaking  most  Scandalous  false  and  reproachful 
words  of  His  most  Sacred  Majesty  King  WILLI  A  JM, 
and  for  protecting  and  concealing  in  his  house  a  Popish 
Priest)  and  some  other  Enemies  of  the  Revolution.  So 
that  (to  omit  the  false  sordid  flatteries  given  to  Coll. 
Fletcher,  which  are  impertinent!}^  added  by  the  Libeller) 
it  is  apparent  that  there  was  a  wicked  conspiracy,  by  this 
book  to  give  distraction  (by  Printing  it  just  before  the 
Earl  of  Bellomont'' s  Arrival  at  Neiv  York)  and  thereby 
to  divide  the  People  and  so  to  disturb  Affairs  under  his 
Government,  that  there  should  be  no  time  or  opportu- 
nity of  quickly  inquiring  into  the  Corruptions  of  Coll. 
Fletchers  manao-ements. 


394  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

This  was  the  time  and  design  of  its  Publication,  these 
the  qualities  of  the  supposed  Authors,  and  of  the  Per- 
sons who  carryed  it  to  the  Press,  and  after  this  manner 
(by  Coll.  Fletcher  and  the  afore  mentioned  of  the  Council) 
it  was  permitted  to  be  Printed  ;  so  that  it  is  no  wonder, 
that  this  book  was  a  Mine  Sprung  from  Hell  to  blow  up 
the  Peace  of  this  Province,  when  so  many  Sons  of  Belial 
in  Office  and  Authority  joyned  in  its  Contrivance  and 
Publication,  who  must  keep  to  their  nature  and  not  stick 
at  an}^  plain  falsehood  (although  it  fly  in  the  face  of  the 
King,  Lords  and  Commons  of  England^  and  Truth  it- 
self) that  may  Exasperate  and  raise  a  flame,  and  if  pos- 
sible Murder  over  again  those  Martyrs  for  their  Loyalty, 
Capt.  Leisler  and  Mr.  Milhourn^  who  were  barbarously 
Executed  for  bravely  Asserting  the  Rights  and  Liberties 
of  Englishmen  against  Popish  and  Arbitrary  Govern- 
ment ;  and  for  their  Early  and  Sincere  Afl'ection  to  His 
most  Sacred  Majesty  KING  WILLIAM,  whom  GOD 
send  long  to  Reign. 

[Here  follows  a  reprint  of  the  official  publication  of  the  Act  for  Revers- 
ing the  Attainder  <>/"  Jacob  Leisler  and  others — 6  and  1  Will.  III.  Anno 
1695.     Printed  in  the  Documentary  History  of  New  York:  II.  435-37.] 


A    BILL    FOR    RECONCILEING    OF    PARTIES. 

Whereas  there  is  nothing  that  doth  more  conduce 
to  y®  quiet  good  and  prosperity  of  any  Kingdom  Com- 
monwealth, Colony,  people  or  place  than  y''  hearty  af- 
fection unanimity  agreement  and  mutual  amity  of  its  in- 
habitants y^  defects  whereof  in  this  Colony  for  divers 
yeares  last  past  hath  unhappily  created  great  dissentions, 
troubles  and  animosities,  for  y''  laying  and  appeasing 
whereof  Several  good  laws  have  been  made  Enacted  and 
Provided  and  amongst  y°  rest  an  act  of  the  general  as- 
sembly made  in  y"  third  year  of  y"  reigne  of  our  now 
Soveraigne  Lord  King  William  the  third  and  of  y"'  late 
Queen  Mary  of  ever  happy  memory  Entituled  an  act  for 
Quieting  and  Settling  y*"  disorders  that  have  lately  hap- 
pened  within  this  province  and  for  y^  establishing  and 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  395 

Securing  their  Maj*'*''  present  government  against  y^  like 
disorders  for  y^  future,  which  on  y®  eleventh  day  of  May  in 
the  year  of  our  Lord  One  thousand  six  hundred  and 
ninety  seven  by  their  excellencys  the  then  Lords  Justices 
of  England  with  the  advice  of  y""  Privy  Councill  ^s  ap- 
proved confirmed  finally  enacted  and  ratified  notwith- 
standing which  y''  good  ends  by  y®  same  Act  designed 
and  intended  have  not  been  attained  but  on  y^  contrary 
to  y*"  great  displeasure  and  griefe  of  those  who  cordially 
Love  and  desire  y^  good  and  welfare  of  this  Colony  (it's 
feared)  y®  heats  and  animosities  between  y^  inhabitants 
of  y^  same  have  been  of  late  years  industriously  cherished 
and  fomented  for  y*'  remedy  whereof  and  to  effect  an 
intire  reconciliation  among  all  y®  good  people  of  this 
Colony,  that  all  dissentions,  differences  in  opinion,  Con- 
troversies, Strifes,  heartburnings  and  animosities  what- 
soever may  forever  be  obliterated,  appeased  extirpated 
forgotten  &  extinguished  and  love  Concord,  union 
mutual  friendship,  j^iety  &  Christian  Charity,  incited, 
Confirmed,  Benewed,  promoted  &  Incouraged. 

Be  it  enacted  hy  his  Excellency  the  Governonr  by 
and  ivith  the  consent  of  y^  Council  &  Assembly  and  hy  y" 
authority  of  the  same^  That  no  felony,  homicide,  act  of 
Hostility  Trespasse,  assault,  imprisonnient.  Taking  away 
of  goods  and  chattels  wrong  Injury  or  molestation 
whatsoever  advised,  councelled,  Comanded,  appointed, 
happened,  acted  or  done  by  any  person  or  persons 
whatsoever  within  any  i)art  of  this  province  from  the 
Eighteenth  day  of  April  which  was  in  y*  year  of  our 
Lord  1G89  untill  y^  30*^  day  of  August  in  the  year  of 
our  Lord  1692  Shall  at  any  time  hereafter  be  brought 
in  Question  or  dispute  but  that  y^  same  be  forgiven,  re- 
mitted, indulged.  Released  and  put  in  utter  oblivion  and 
that  all  prosecutions,  appeals,  and  all  personal  actions 
Suites,  Claimes,  and  Demands  whatsoever  against  any 
person  or  persons  whatsoever  Body  Corporate,  Cities, 
Townes,  and  Villages,  and  all  his  majestjs'  subjects 
whatsoever  for  or  by  reason  of  any  act  matter  or  thing 
whatsoever  as  aforesaid  done  passed  or  transacted  in 


396  DOCUMENTS   RELATING   TO    THE 

any  part  of  this  Colony  from  said  Eighteenth  day  of 
April  in  the  year  of  Lord  1689,  untill  y^  s'^  30'^  of 
Aug'*  in  the  year  of  Lord  1692  and  all  Judgments  and 
Executions  thereupon,  already  had  or  brought  or  to 
be  had  or  brought  at  any  time  hereafter  are  hereby  and 
from  henceforth  discharged  and  annulled,  &  declared  to 
be  invalid  &  voyd  to  all  intents  Constructions  and  Pur- 
poses any  law,  Statute  or  ordinance  to  y®  contrary  in 
any  ways  notwithstanding. 

Provided  always  that  nothing  here  contained  shall 
be  construed  or  intended  to  discharge  &  make  void  any 
voluntary  Contract  or  debts  grounded  upon  any  lending 
or  goods  sold  or  by  Speciall  or  any  contract  or  Cove- 
nant deed  or  Conveyance  for  any  Lands,  Tenements 
Hereditements  goods  or  Chattels  between  any  person  or 
persons  whatsoever  within  this  province  between  y^  days 
&  times  above  limited  and  expressed.  But  that  such 
Contracts,  Debts,  Covenants  &  Conveyances  shall  be  and 
remaine  in  the  same  condition  &  of  y^  same  virtue  and 
force  as  if  this  act  had  never  been  made  or  passed,  and 
to  y®  end  that  the  Quiet  good  &  prosperity  of  y^  people 
in  this  province  may  for  y**  future  be  maintained  and 
supported  with  hearty  affection  agreement  and  mutual 
amity,  and  friendship  and  that  all  Strifes,  heats,  animosi- 
ties, may  be  suppressed. 

Be  it  Enacted  hy  the  authority  aforesaid  that  All  and 
every  person  or  persons  Avithin  this  province,  that  shall 
hereafter  charge  and  upbraid  any  of  his  Maj*^^  subjects 
within  y**  s'^  province  with  any  act  of  felony  homicide, 
hostility.  Trespass,  assault.  Imprisonment  takeing  away 
of  Goods  &  Chattels,  Avrong  Injury  or  molestation  done 
or  acted  by  any  person  or  persons  whatsoever  A\ithin  any 
part  of  this  province  from  y^  aforesaid  18th  day  of 
April  in  the  year  of  our  Lord  1689  untill  y^  aforesaid 
30*^  day  of  Augs*  1692  or  that  shall  disdainfully  upbraid 
any  person  or  persons  with  y''  name  of  Leislerite  or  the 
murdering  or  Killing  of  Leisler  or  any  other  opprobrious 
words  or  terms  by  which  the  peace  of  y^  government 
may  in  any  measure  be  disturbed,  such  person  or  per- 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  397 

gons  offending  in  manner  aforesaid  shall  for  each  offence 
so  by  him  committed  and  thereof  convicted  before  any 
Justice  of  the  Peace  within  y®  s*^  province  (who  are 
hereby  authorized  and  impowered  to  hear  and  determine 
y®  same)  shall  forfeit  and  pay  the  sum  of  forty  shillings 
to  be  levied  by  distresse  upon  the  goods  and  chattels  of 
y^  person  offending  &  convict  as  aforesaid,  and  if  the 
person  offending  shall  not  have  goods  and  chattels  suf- 
ficient for  the  paying  the  said  fine  or  forfeiture,  then  he 
shall  be  ordered  to  sitt  two  hours  of  y®  forenoone  in  the 
Stocks  in  the  Towne  or  place  where  such  offence  is  com- 
mitted, with  an  Inscription  on  his  forehead  reciting  y® 
words  by  him  disdainfully  uttered,  one  half  of  y®  s*^  fine 
or  forfeiture  to  the  Informer,  the  other  half  to  the  poor 
of  the  place  where  such  offense  shall  be  committed. 

Citty  of  New  York,  Die  martis  ante  mer.  Jun.  14" 
1698,  in  the  tenth  year  of  his  maj*^*  reigne. 
House  of  Representatives  for  the  province  of 
New  York. 

This  Bill  having  been  read  three  times  is  passed  & 
ordered  to  be  sent  up  to  his  Excellency  the 
Governor  and  Council  for  their  assent. 

By  order  of  the  House  of  Representatives, 

Phillip  French,  Speaker, 


ANSWER    OF   THE    CHURCH   WARDENS    OF    THE    DUTCH  CHURCH 

CONCERNING    THE    REBURIAL    OF     LEISLER    AND 

MILBORNE    IN    THEIR    CHURCH. 

[Translated  from  the  original  in  Dutch  by  8.  Alofsen,  Ksq.] 

Copy. 

We  the  churchwardens  having  been  requested  by 
Isaac  de  Riemer  in  the  name  of  Mr.  Jacob  Leisler  to 
bury  the  corpse  of  his  father  and  Milborne,  in  our 
Nether-Hutch  Church — give  for  answer,  because  we  are 
pressed  by  both  parties  in  the  Congregation  and  very 
much  desire  to  preserve  peace  and  quiet  in  our  Church, 


398  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

that  we  cannot  consent  thereto,  but  also  that  we  shall 
not  hinder  it. 

In  New  York,  1698,  Theunis  DeKey, 

October  14th.  Johannes  Kip, 

Brandt  Schuyler. 


LETTER     FROM    MEMBERS     OF     THE    DUTCH     CHURCH    IN   NEW 
YORK    TO    THE    CLASSIS    OF    AMSTERDAM. 

To    the    Right    Reverend    Olassis    of    the     City    of 
Amsterdam, : 

Right  Reverend  very   learned  Seigneurs   Fathers  and 
Brothers  in  Christ. 

In  the  beginning  we  would  request  your  Reverences 
to  excuse  us  that  in  this  account  we  are  obliged  to  be 
somewhat  more  tedious,  than  at  first  view  would  seem 
to  be  necessary ;  but  by  the  continuation  of  the  account 
it  will  appear,  that  the  one  without  the  other  would  not 
have  had  sufficient  coherence.  In  particular  do  we 
consider  it  an  extraordinary  favor  of  Heaven,  that  we 
have  this  opportunity  to  lay  our  business  (that  it  may 
see  the  light  of  Heaven)  before  so  Reverend  and  wise 
an  assembly.  The  sorrow  and  fear  which  we  have  had 
during  the  last  year  of  the  Reign  of  our  ex-King  James, 
have  been  unusually  great  and  frightful,  for  hearing 
with  what  violent  strides  the  Popedom  in  England 
was  breaking  forth  and  taking  a  stand,  what  greater 
success  the  Dragonades  in  France  had  had,  and  seeing 
how  in  these  distant  regions  the  foundation  was  being 
laid  to  introduce  the  same  here  in  every  manner, 
we  could  well  imagine  what  was  in  store  for  us.  The 
Jesuits  had  already  built  a  school  here,  under  pretence 
to  teach  the  youth  the  Latin  Language,  to  whifcli  some 
even  of  the  most  influential  had  already  sent  their  chil- 
dren ;  and  our  Church  Bell  was  tolled  about  eight 
o'clock  in  the  morning  when  the  School  began.  Yes, 
some  whom  one  would  not  have  suspected  of  it,  had 
already  slily  heard  a  low  mass,  although  they  afterwards 


ADMINISTRATION   OF   LEISLER.  399 

said  that  it  was  only  througli  curiosity.  The  Hoyal 
order  having  arrived  from  England  commanding  us  to 
thank  our  Lord  God  in  a  solemn  manner  and  burn  bon- 
fires over  the  happy  delivery  of  the  Queen  of  a  Prince 
of  Wales  it  was  executed  with  extravagant  joy  and  the 
utmost  tokens  of  wanton  gkidness,  even  of  those  who 
were  the  Heads  of  our  church  ;  whilst  every  man  open 
to  reason,  and  reflecting  upon  the  consequences,  could 
readily  guess  that  the  pretended  birth  of  this  prince  was 
a  mortal  stab  for  the  Protestant  Kelicnon  in  Eno;land, 
and  consequently  for  ours.  For  us  therefore  nothing 
else  was  to  be  done  than  to  possess  our  souls  in  patience, 
and  wait  how  God's  Providence  might  please  order  it. 
In  such  a  condition  of  mind  it  can  well  be  imagined  that 
our  joy  and  gladness  was  still  far  greater  than  our  sorrow 
had  been  before ;  when  we  received  the  certain  intelligence 
that  His  Royal  highness  the  Prince  of  Orange,  now  our 
blessed  Monarch,  had  arrived  in  England  with  so  power- 
ful an  army  to  release  that  country  from  Tyranny  and 
Popery  ;  and  had  been  received  by  the  principal  inhabi- 
tants with  unusual  joy  and  extreme  affection.  To  which 
was  still  added,  to  our  greater  contentment  and  assu- 
rance the  news  that  the  inhabitants  of  our  neighboring 
Boston  had  also  declared  themselves  for  the  Prince  of 
Orange,  and  had  arrested  their  and  our  Governor  Sir 
Edmund  Andi'os  and  his  Council  who  had  refused  to  do 
so.  All  these  reports,  as  we  have  said,  coming  at  the 
same  time,  the  people  could  not  be  restrained.  They  cried 
out  that  the  magistrates  here  ought  also  to  declare  them- 
selves tor  the  Prince  of  Orange,  for  we  had  more  reason 
to  do  so  than  those  of  Boston  ;  that  his  forefathers  had 
liberated  our  ancestors  from  the  Spanish  yoke  and  his 
royal  highness  had  now  again  come  to  deliver  the  king- 
dom of  England  from  Popery  and  Tyranny.  Tliis  they 
said  and  demonstrated  with  that  love  and  affection  for  the 
royal  house  of  Nassau,,  which  is  natural  to  the  Dutch 
nation  (as  they  are  called  here)  although  they  have  been 
so  deplorably  rewarded  therefor.  Our  Bulers  were  un- 
willing and  too  timid  to  risk  anything,  thinking  it  might 


400  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

be  a  Monmoutli  work  :  however  the  terrible  outcries  of 
the  people  caused  an  assembly  of  the  Civil  a.nd  Military 
Council,  where  everybody  was  sworn  not  to  divulge  or 
communicate  among  the  people  anything  which  might 
there  be  discussed  or  resolved  upon.  Nevertheless  it 
leaked  out  that  those  who  had  dared  to  speak  in  favor 
of  the  Revolution  had  been  met  very  sharply  and  intim- 
idated with  menaces,  and  that  the  Lieutenant  Governor 
Nicholson  had  pulled  from  his  pocket  his  commission 
from  King  James  and  thrown  it  upon  the  table,  swearing 
with  big  oaths  and  protestations  tliat  he  would  live  and 
die  by  the  same.  A  short  time  afterwards  we  saw  in  the 
morning  that  the  cannon  of  the  Fort  had  been  turned 
towards  the  City,  upon  which  the  people  flew  into  fury, 
and  the  magistrates  were  obliged  to  grant  them  permis- 
sion to  inspect  the  magazine,  and  that  the  Militia  with 
one  company  should  mount  guard  in  the  Fort  at  night. 
Yet  they  were  not  allowed  to  place  their  sentinels  over 
the  whole  of  the  Fort,  but  all  had  to  remain  within  the 
limits  of  the  park ;  and  it  became  known  privately  that 
it  was  the  intention  of  the  magistracy  to  let  the  soldiers 
whom  they  had  ordered  from  Boston  through  a  postern 
into  the  fort,  and  then  with  those  who  were  of  their 
opinion  again  to  beat  the  Burgher  Militia  out.  From  all 
this  nothing  was  to  be  expected  but  a  massacre  over  the 
whole  land,  because  the  minds  of  the  people  were  in  the 
highest  degree  exasperated,  and  those  who  were  in 
favor  of  the  Revolution  were  certainly  ten  to  one.  The 
Burghers  seeing  that  nothing  could  be  done  with  the 
magistracy,  and  that  the  attempt  would  probably  be 
made  in  some  way  or  other  to  overreach  them,  looked 
earnestly  for  a  leader,  and  at  last  persuaded  Captain 
Jacob  Leisler  to  commence  the  work  with  the  Burghers  ; 
not,  however,  with  the  intention  to  exclude  the  magis- 
tracy or  Lieutenant  Governor,  but  solely  to  be  master  of 
the  work,  and  in  case  of  an  enemy  from  abroad  (of  which 
they  heard  some  rumors,  which  afterwards  were  also 
found  to  be  true)  it  would  not  be  possible  to  force  upon 
them  an  agreement  against  their  will.     It  was  then  un- 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  401 

dertaken  in  this  wise,  Captain  Leisler  forced  as  it  were 
by  the  people  marched  into  the  Fort,  and  at  the  same 
time  all  Companies  of  the  Militia  assembled  in  front  of 
the  residences  of  their  respective  Captains.  These  and 
some  of  the  Lieutenants  not  having  been  found,  they 
conjunctly  marched  off  led  in  order  by  subaltern  officers 
to  the  Plain  of  the  Fort.  Here  whilst  standing  in  order 
the  Captains  and  the  Colonel  (who  was  also  one  of  the 
Supreme  Council)  came  and  intimidating  them  with  men- 
aces tried  to  prevent  the  Militia  from  joining  the  corn- 
pan}^  of  Captain  Leisler,  but  they  remained  steadfast, 
and  at  last  one  of  the  Ensigns  of  the  Militia  had  the  har- 
dihood to  march  in  with  his  Company  and  was  followed 
by  all  the  others.  The  Captains  having  been  convinced, 
also  came  in  and  signed  in  public  upon  a  Drum  (although 
some  rather  backward)  that  they  were  in  favor  of  the 
Prince  of  Orange,  but  the  Colonel  was  in  no  way  to  be 
persuaded,  to  join  the  others,  although  he  was  very  po- 
litely invited  to  do  so  in  the  name  of  the  entire  Militia 
and  some  private  friends  tried  with  much  reasoning  to 
make  it  agreeable  to  him,  because  he  well  knew  (yes,  he 
even  said  so,)  that  if  he  would  but  follow,  all  would 
follow.  When  this  to  the  great  regret  of  the  Militia  did 
not  succeed,  they  tried  to  set  things  in  order  as  well  as 
they  could,  called  a  meeting  over  the  whole  land,  in 
which  it  was  resolved  that  the  Captains  in  turns  should 
have  the  care  of  the  Fort,  and  conjunctly  write  to  Eng- 
land of  what  had  been  done,  requesting  that  the  supreme 
authority  there  would  please  to  direct  them  what  to  do. 
All  this  having  been  so  softly  and  easily  accomplished, 
everything  would  have  become  quiet,  until  relief  should 
have  arrived  from  higher  hand,  if  the  magistrates  who 
of  themselves  had  retired  from  tlie  administration,  iiad 
been  contented  to  be  quiet  and  wait  for  the  order  from 
England  :  but  they  tried  to  upset  everything,  attempting 
to  expel  those  who  then  had  tlie  power  of  arms  in  their 
hands,  because  their  number  was  so  small,  and  this 
madness  grew  more  and  more,  after  it  became  known 
that  matters  in  England  looked  well,  and  that  every- 

26 


402  DOCUMENTS    RELATING    TO    THE 

thing  appeared  there  to  lead  to  the  desired  result. 
Now  it  is  to  be  known  that  most  of  the  magistrates  or 
those  who  were  their  friends,  in  particular  those  of  the 
Dutch  nation  were  also  elders  and  deacons  and  therefore 
heads  of  our  church.  With  these  D"  [Domine]  Se- 
lyns  united  himself  allowing  himself  very  imprudently 
to  be  used  by  them,  to  advocate  this  cause  from  his 
pulpit,  accusing  the  People  with  the  greatest  bitterness 
and  partiality  of  Rebellion  and  riot  against  their  high 
Magistrates.  This  made  the  breach  immediately  incur- 
able, for  knowing  that  they  had  done  everything  in 
uprightness  and  for  a  good  cause,  yes  that  the  magis- 
trates ought  to  have  led  them  therein,  they  began  to 
greatly  hate  them.  D"  Selyns  continued  in  this  man- 
ner for  all  the  time  the  administration  remained  in  the 
hands  of  Commander  Leisler,  omitting  nothing  that  he 
knew  could  in  the  least  exasperate  the  people,  and  flung 
from  the  pulpit  everything  that  was  suggested  to  him  by 
the  most  furious  partisans.  The  most  prudent  and 
peaceful  of  the  classis,  certainly  tried  to  reason  with 
him  and  to  induce  him  to  keep  out  of  that  work,  and 
not  to  soil  his  Ministerial  calling,  which  was  so  highly 
elevated  above  all  this,  with  such  insignificant  things, 
and  to  make  his  mission  not  at  once  entirely  useless ; 
that  enough  mistakes  were  being  committed  on  both 
sides,  and  that  he  ought  to  show  every  one  his  duty,  and 
keep  himself  aloof  from  partisanship:  but  to  this  he 
could  by  no  means  be  brought. 

Commander  Leisler  being  confirmed  in  the  admin- 
istration as  well  by  the  people  as  by  the  letter  of  his 
majesty,  in  a  very  short  time,  brought  the  Fort  and  in 
particular  the  City  (whose  Fortifications  had  entirely 
fallen  in  decay)  into  a  suitable  position  (having  been 
assisted  therein  with  uncommon  zeal  by  the  people)  and 
notwithstanding  the  opposition  of  his  Enemies  put 
thino;s  in  such  order  that  the  government  came  into  its 
full  posture  of  defence,  so  that  his  name  in  the  whole  of 
the  West  Indies  became  so  respected  in  a  short  time  that 
here  we  had  to  fear  for  no  enemy  from  abroad.     Yes,  if 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  403 

we  had  been  united  among  ourselves  we  would  have 
known  of  no  war ;  but  at  Albany  where  he  could  not 
always  be  in  person,  the  French  and  savages  of  Canada 
were  given  fair  play  by  his  Enemies  so  that  they  took 
advantage  of  the  opportunity  and  surprized  Schoonec- 
tade  (a  place  12  miles  distant  from  there)  and  massacred 
and  burnt  it  with  the  greatest  fury  in  the  world,  in 
which  those  of  Albany  were  much  to  blame  for  violently 
joreventing  those  from  going  who  were  for  Commander 
Leisler,  and  desired  to  march  thither  when  the  news 
came  that  the  French  were  advancing.  Here  the  pious 
D"  Tassemaker  was  deplorably  and  barbarously  mur- 
dered ;  and  his  head  put  upon  a  pole  was  carried  in  tri- 
umph to  Canada.  The  expedition  which  was  afterwards 
undertaken  with  very  many  people  also  from  the  neigh- 
bouring Governments  and  so  ably  conducted  that  unless 
bj^  special  accident  the  design  could  not  fail,  was  also 
intentionally  spoiled  because  he  was  unable  to  be  per- 
sonally present,  and  because  they  grudged  him  the 
honor  thereof 

In  the  month  of  January  Major  Kichard  Ingoldsby 
arrived  with  his  soldiers  from  England,  to  remain  here 
in  garrison.  Colonel  Slaughter  our  Governor  having  first 
gone  to  Bermudas.  Allowing  himself  immediately  to  be 
seduced  by  those  who  were  against  Commander  Leisler, 
he  demanded  the  delivery  of  the  Fort.  Leisler  asked 
him  for  his  authority  either  from  the  King,  or  from 
Governor  Slaughter,  but  he  could  show  none,  and 
the  Fort  therefore  was  at  once  refused  to  him.  Yet 
he  was  with  all  manner  of  civility  invited  as  long  as 
Governor  Slaughter  remained  so  tardy  to  make  the  house 
of  Commander  Leisler  his  personal  abode,  where  he 
would  be  entertained  with  their  utmost  ability,  and  to 
have  his  soldiers  quartered  among  the  Burghers,  where 
they  also  would  receive  all  possible  comfort ;  but  nothing 
could  satisfy  him  but  the  surrender  of  the  Fort,  although 
he  well  knew  that  his  order  was,  should  he  arrive  here 
sooner  than  the  Governor,  to  remain  with  the  soldiers 
quietly  on  board  until  his  arrival,  or  otherwise  the  Com- 


404  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

mander  could  order  him  to  do  so  if  it  were  necessary : 
And  also  that  Commander  Leisler  could  not  deliver  the 
Fort  to  him  except  upon  an  expressly  written  order  after 
the  usages  of  war  without  betraying  himself  and  making 
himself  culpable,  so  that  they  could  have  hung  him  as 
a  Villain  in  the  gate  of  the  Fort,  which  was  their  in- 
tention if  he  had  not  known  how  to  avoid  this  snare. 
They  then  incited  the  whole  country  against  him  as 
against  a  Rebel  who  refused  to  let  the  King's  Soldiers 
enter  into  his  majesty's  Fort,  everything  possible  was 
attempted  to  bring  on  a  collision,  saying  amongst 
themselves,  we  will  continue  to  provoke  the  Dog  until 
he  bites,  and  then  we  will  have  cause  enough  for  an 
action  against  him,  doing  their  best  to  make  him  lose 
his  patience,  and  that  in  such  a  villainous  and  brutish 
manner  that  we  would  be  ashamed  to  write  it  down 
upon  paper.  Some  of  the  Consistory  also  did  not  find 
it  improper  to  march  with  their  muskets  in  company 
of  all  sorts  of  rascals  against  their  fellow  citizens  and 
members  in  the  Fort ;  by  which  it  happened  that  a  large 
piece  of  cannon  loaded  with  musket  balls  and  small  shot 
in  being  pointed  towards  the  Fort  was  fired  imprudent- 
ly, killing  several  people,  among  whom  was  an  Elder  and 
a  Deacon,  and  deplorably  wounding  others.  These 
friends  had  the  Sunday  previous  been  present  at  the  love 
feast  of  the  Lord's  Supper ;  how  did  one  another  com- 
pare after  this  ?  Yes,  D"  Selyns  having  been  asked  b}^ 
an  elder  who  was  sickly,  how  the  French  did,  said,  they 
are  still  full  of  constancy  in  this  work.  This  accident 
having  happened  they  cried  out  that  it  was  the  fault 
of  that  black  Dog,  he  was  a  murderer  of  these  poor 
people.  Yet  the  man  meanwhile  Avas  keeping  quiet, 
with  his  men  in  the  Fort,  although  it  was  in  his  power, 
had  he  desired,  to  destroy  everything  in  a  short  time,  for 
even  had  he  wanted  a  thousand  men  or  more,  they  could 
have  been  had  in  a  few  hours.  Relying  upon  his  good 
cause  and  having  an  abhorrence  of  the  spilling  of 
Citizens'  blood ;  he  had  not  the  slightest  idea  that  he 
would  have  been  condemned  by  his  Enemies,  and  not 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  405 

be  allowed  to  defend  himself  before  the  King ;  or  that 
the  Governor  would  have  approved  such  a  sentence  and 
signed  the  Execution.  A  few  days  afterwards  Gover- 
nor Slaughter  arrived,  and  because  it  Avas  in  the  evening, 
the  surrender  of  the  Fort  was  postponed  until  the  next 
morning.  Meanwhile  major  Ingoldsby  came  calling 
out  at  the  Fort  that  if  Leisler  and  the  chief  men  should 
be  secured,  the  rest  would  be  pardoned.  Of  this  they 
had  not  the  least  intention,  which  otherwise  would 
have  been  easy  for  them  to  do  ;  but  they  only  tried  to 
come  before  his  majesty  and  thus  before  the  Fountain 
of  Justice  to  defend  themselves.  In  the  morning  the 
said  Ingoldsby  came  into  the  Fort  to  Commander 
Leisler,  requesting  that  he  would  order  his  people  who 
were  yet  more  than  three  hundred  men  strong  to  put 
down  their  firearms  and  so  to  march  out,  in  order  to 
prevent  all  commotions,  and  their  arms  should  be  im- 
mediately returned  to  them,  which  he  without  suspicion 
immediately  caused  to  be  done.  The  men  thus  coming 
out  in  their  side  arms  were  at  once  attacked  by  the  out- 
side-standing crowd,  scolded  as  being  villains  and  traitors, 
and  robbed  of  everything,  and  that  with  such  fury  as  if 
they  wanted  to  kill  them :  The  officers  meanwhile  shout- 
ino;  and  screaming — rob  them!  rob  them!  and  take  their 
guns  away  from  these  rascals,  they  will  otherwise  murder 
our  wives  and  children !  Yes,  one  of  these  Heroes  after- 
wards said  that  he  was  sorry  he  had  not  ordered  them  to 
be  stripped  and  caused  them  to  be  scourged  with  walnut 
rods  out  of  the  city.  Commander  Leisler  was  immedi- 
ately afterwards  brought  before  the  Governor,  who 
allowed  (having  spoken  but  a  very  few  words  to  him) 
that  he  was  spit  in  the  face,  and  that  he  was  robbed  of 
his  wig,  sword  and  sash,  and  of  a  portion  of  his  clothes 
which  were  torn  from  him,  and  that  they  abused  him  as 
raging  Furies,  putting  irons  on  his  legs  and  throwing 
him  into  a  dark  hole  underground  full  of  stench  and  filth. 
His  council  and  officers  of  the  militia,  and  others  whom 
they  found  in  the  fort  or  caught  among  the  Burghers 
were  treated  in  the  same  manner,  and  Governor  Slaugh- 


406  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

ter  afterwards  never  saw  nor  spoke  to  Leisler  or  any- 
body else  of  the  prisoners,  but  once  when  they  were  con- 
fined in  the  casemate  of  the  Fort  and  already  been  con- 
demned, he  came  to  them  in  the  night  being  drunk,  and 
even  then  did  he  promise  them  that  not  a  hair  of  their 
head  would  be  hurt.  Although  they  and  still  six 
others  had  been  condemned  by  a  picked  jury  com- 
posed of  youths  and  other  bitter  men,  the  Governor 
could  not  be  so  readily  persuaded  to  sign  the  ex- 
ecution, which  at  last  they  got  him  to  do  after 
having  made  him  drunk  and  under  promise  of  a 
large  sum  of  money  ;  for  he  was  a  poor  man  who 
had  been  hunted  up  in  England  in  order  to  play  this 
tragedy  with.  Everything  was  done  to  impress  him 
with  the  necessity  of  the  moment.  All  the  three  Dutch 
Ministers  exaggerated  in  the  pulpit  as  well  as  in  their 
conversation  the  pretended  tyranny  of  Leisler,  and  de- 
clared that  an  example  ought  to  be  made  of  him.  Even 
wives  of  principal  men  threw  themselves  at  the  feet 
of  the  Governor  begging  him  for  the  love  of  God 
to  have  compassion  on  them  and  the  country ;  saying 
that  union  nevermore  would  come,  as  long  as  those 
villains  were  alive,  and  therefore  he  ought  not  to  hesi- 
tate to  let  them  be  hung,  and  then  at  once  they  would 
have  peace  and  union,  which  otherwise  would  be  im- 
possible. At  last  having  hereto  been  in  particular  in- 
duced by  his  covetous  wife  he  reluctantly  and  with  great 
sadness  signed  the  warrant  of  execution,  crying  aloud  in 
great  oppression,  O  God !  how  shall  I  be  able  to  answer 
for  it  before  Your  Majesty  and  my  king,  and  so  he  had 
from  that  time  not  one  peaceful  hour.  The  more  because 
he  learnt  from  the  High  Sheriff  by  Avhom  he  had  order- 
ed the  Execution  with  what  Christian  courage  they  had 
died,  protesting  before  God,  that  all  they  had  done  had 
been  for  the  protestant  E/cligion,  and  for  king  William  and 
queen  Mary ;  praying  that  the  Lord  would  grant  them 
a  long  and  prosperous  reign,  praying  also  for  him  the 
Governor  (Slaughter)  wishing  hiin  a  peaceful  adminis- 
tration, forgiving  all  who  were  the  cause  of  their  death, 


ADMINISTRATION    OF   LEISLER.  407 

and  begging  if  they  had  offended  anybody  that  they 
would  also  forgive  them  ;  exhibiting  in  everything  such 
Christian  patience,  that  D?  Selyns  himself  was  touched 
by  it,  and  confessed  that  they  died  as  Christians,  al- 
though he  previously  in  great  passion  had  said  that 
Leisler  was  a  Devil  in  the  flesh,  and  never  could  be 
saved ;  for  which  he  was  reproved  even  by  his  wife  and 
others  who  stood  by.  The  magistrates  tried  to  dispel 
this  melancholy  of  Governor  Slaughter  by  frequently 
making  him  excessively  drunk,  but  when  the  wine  had 
been  slept  out,  the  regret  and  despair  again  returned 
uppermost.  Keceiving  from  them,  upon  his  rueful  lam- 
entations little  better  comfort  than  Judas  received  from 
the  High  Priests,  and  after  having  been  tossed  to  and 
fro  for  some  time  by  various  passions  and  affections  he 
died  suddenly  of  disease  of  the  heart.  If  our  three 
Dutch  Ministers  had  done  the  same  as  D°  Daille  (a 
French  Minister  at  Boston)  was  wont  to  do  who  think- 
ing that  something  more  mild  could  have  been  done,  went 
to  the  Commander  Leisler  and  exhorted  him  to  meekness, 
and  Avhen  he  was  in  prison  and  condemned  did  all  his 
devoir  to  dissuade  Governor  Slaughter  from  the  execu- 
tion, urging  him  not  to  let  Leisler  die.  Now  if  these 
three  had  done  their  duty,  who  does  not  see  that  this 
murder  could  have  been  prevented  "?  but  they  were  very 
far  from  doing  so.  Being  now  in  possession  of  the 
Governors  signature  and  consent  to  the  execution 
which  they  received  on  Thursday  the  14*''  May,  1691, 
D?  Selyns  let  himself  be  used  to  announce  to  them  their 
death  and  came  whilst  they  were  sitting  to  take  supper 
together.  Yet  he  had  no  patience  to  allow  them  to  do 
so,  although  he  might  well  have  been  aware  that  such  a 
message  would  take  away  all  their  appetite  :  He  there- 
for delivered  his  message  in  a  curious  manner,  saying 
that  he  came  to  bring  tliem  good  news,  that  not  all  of 
them  should  die,  but  said  he  to  Commander  Leisler  and 
Secretary  Milborn,  you  both  shall  die  on  Saturday 
next,  being  the  16""  May,  and  you  have  to  prepare 
yourselves  thereto.    Thus  in  all  the  circumstances  show- 


408  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

ing  that  in  all  these  his  actions  he  was  not  as  much  af- 
fected as  he  well  might  have  been,  and  afterwards  he  did 
not  visit  them  until  the  day  they  were  executed.  The 
joy  of  those  who  desired  to  kill  him  [Leisler]  was  inex- 
pressible, it  was — where  ?  where  shall  we  now  put  the 
gallows  f  and  when  some  told  them  that  these  things 
coming  to  the  ears  of  His  Majesty,  might  yet  be 
changed,  they  answered,  we  will  take  good  care  that 
the  King  shall  not  know  it,  as  we  have  done  thus  far, 
nobody  will  speak  against  it.  The  gallows  was  then 
made  of  those  pieces  of  wood  which  they  had  put  in 
readiness  upon  the  walls  of  the  Fort,  with  which  to  turn 
away  the  storming  enemy.  To  give  an  account  of  the 
execution  in  all  its  details  is  unnecessary,  because  this 
was  sufficiently  done  in  a  short  time  after  it  occurred  by 
women  who  went  hence  to  Amsterdam,  we  therefore  will 
only  mention  how  D"  Selyns  and  the  two  other  ministers 
behaved  themselves  afterwards.  These  every  one  in  his 
place  were  advocates  for  the  necessity  of  the  act,  and 
D".  Selyns  excelled  therein,  asserting  that  otherwise  nei- 
ther peace  nor  union  could  be  expected  among  the 
people  ;  which  could  result  in  nothing  else  than  the  con- 
trary, for  the  people  knowing  that  Commander  Leisler 
and  all  of  them  had  done  this  work  for  the  King  and 
for  their  liberty,  began  to  feel  an  implacable  hatred 
against  the  instigators  of  the  murder,  and  the  others  by 
their  manner  increased  this  feeling  as  much  as  was  in 
their  power.  For  as  it  is  customary  after  the  punish- 
ing of  the  chiefs  to  proclaim  and  grant  a  perfect  pardon 
and  amnesty  for  the  rest,  especially  when  the  delin- 
quents are  large  in  numbers,  here  they  did  to  the  con- 
trary, because  they  intended  to  take  their  full  revenge, 
as  some  had  already  said,  that  of  those  whose  blood  they 
could  not  get  they  would  have  their  goods.  Now  every 
one  who  knows  how  far  in  England  the  law  of  Confis- 
cation extends  in  England,  can  easily  imagine  what 
they  intended  to  do  here,  had  not  the  fear  of  some  day 
being  called  to  account  kept  them  l)ack.  In  the  Church 
it  was  the  same,  those  who  were  the  most  bitter  in  this 


ADMINISTRATION   OF    LEISLER.  409 

work  were  elected  to  the  church  offices,  by  which  the 
people  got  such  an  aversion  to  the  public  worship,  that 
at  first  only  a  tenth  part  enjoyed  the  Lord's  Supper,  and 
some  have  to  this  day  not  enjoyed  the  same.  Of  this 
T>°  Selyns  was  the  great  cause,  continuing  constantly 
to  plead  for  the  doings  of  the  Magistrates,  the  people 
ought  to  confess  their  fault  or  there  could  be  no  par- 
don. This  manner  of  doing  brought  the  country  into 
the  greatest  confusion  and  peril  in  the  world,  for  those 
of  the  Magistracy  thinking  of  nothing  but  revenge  al- 
lowed all  the  fortifications  (which  Commander  Leisler 
had  kept  in  excellent  order)  to  go  to  decay.  The 
strength  of  the  country  was  gone,  for  those  of  the  peo- 
ple who  in  case  of  an  enemy's  appearance  would  have 
been  called  upon  to  fight,  had  been  disarmed,  denounced 
for  villains  and  baffled  in  all  sorts  of  ways,  which  in 
times  of  a  hostile  surprise  would  have  made  them  run 
nearer  to  the  enemy  than  to  the  Fort.  Those  of 
the  Magistracy  seemed  not  to  be  afraid  of  the  Fi'ench. 
Some  of  them  said  that  the  French  well  knew  where 
they  should  go  to.  Yes,  DP  Varick,  Minister  at  Mid- 
woud,  said  he  would  go  and  meet  them  with  a  glass  of 
wine  and  bid  them  welcome — which  agreed  with  the 
saying  of  J)?  Dellius  (who  was  continually  in  corres- 
pondence with  the  Jesuits  of  Canada)  that  the  King  of 
France  was  not  at  war  with  tlie  kingdom  of  England, 
but  onl}'  with  those  who  held  it  with  the  Prince  of 
Orange.  D?  Selyns  continued  to  do  nothing  else  but 
on  every  occasion  to  enlarge  the  power  of  France  and 
to  impress  upon  the  people  the  impossibility  of  a  good 
result.  From  all  this  the  miserable  condition  in  which 
we  were  can  be  seen,  for  the  Magistrates  instead  of  Fa- 
thers had  become  Stepfathers  only  seeking  for  cause  to 
dispense  punishment.  In  church  frequently  more 
pleading  was  heard  than  preaching :  and  what  was  most 
dreadful  for  us,  if  the  enemy  were  to  come  we  Avould  not 
have  been  treated  as  prisoners  of  war  but  as  conquered 
Rebels  and  Traitors,  and  would  have  been  pointed  out 
to  the  Enemy  by  our  own  fellow  citizens  and  believers. 


410  DOCUMENTS    RELATING    TO    THE 

This  many  bitter  people  seemed  to  long  for,  for  if  it  had 
gone  according  to  their  mind,  not  two  only  but  a  great 
many  would  have  been  hung,  which  the  most  envious 
of  them  estimated  at  some  hundreds.  And  that  would 
not  have  been  done  all  at  once,  but  now  and  then  a 
holyday  would  have  been  made  of  it.  This  evil  now 
having  lasted  for  more  than  seven  years  it  was  high 
time  that  with  this  joyful  peace  we  also  sliould  at  last 
have  peace  among  ourselves.  This  would  certainly  have 
followed  for  a  great  part  in  the  church  if  we  could  have 
had  besides  D?  Selyns  a  peaceful  and  impartial  Minis- 
ter, whom  we  would  have  found  in  D?  Niecella  had  it 
not  been  prevented  by  the  other  and  his  party  as  your 
Reverences  can  learn  from  our  Petition  to  our  Gover- 
nor My-lord  Bellomont.  However  as  it  has  now  hap- 
pened, that  we  enjoy  the  felicity  of  having  our  cause 
examined  before  your  Reverences'  wise  Assembly,  so 
have  we  perfect  confidence,  that  the  Reverend  Classis 
by  their  authority  and  wisdom  will  reconcile  us — to 
whose  judgment  we  fully  submit.  We  only  request 
that  the  calling  of  the  Ministers  for  this  congregation 
shall  be  done  in  no  other  way  than  after  the  ancient  cus- 
tom and  in  equity,  which  has  been  sufficiently  set  forth 

in  our  Petitions,  especially  as  the  call  upon  D° 

has  been  made  by  these  seven  persons  of  the  ordinary 
consistory;  and  some  of  the  old  consistory,  after  it  was 
done  and  the  letters  were  ready  to  be  sent  away,  have 
also  consented  thereto.  But  we  in  no  way  understand 
that,  should  his  Reverence  decline  the  call,  then 
two  partial  men  at  Amsterdam  shall  provide  us  with  a 
young  Pleader  instead  of  a  Preacher,  which  we  know  to 
be  the  intention  of  D?  Selyns  and  his  party,  judging 
those  persons  incompetent  to  get  for  us  an  impartial 
teacher ;  for  the  one  has  been  here  a  bitter  enemy  of  the 
Revolution  and  has  done  his  best  that  things  have  come 
to  that  extremity,  which  easily  could  have  been  pre- 
vented. The  other  is  so  rash  and  partial  in  his  judg- 
ment of  our  cause,  that  before  he  had  perfectl)'  under- 
stood the  same,   upon  the  bitter  writing  of  D  °  Selyns, 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  411 

he  condeianed  D"  Niecella  from  what  he  had  done  as 
unworthy  ever  to  enter  the  pulpit,  as  he  has  written  to 
his  friends  here.  This  need  not  be  contradicted  in  any 
other  manner  than  that  his  congregation  in  general  had 
with  much  love  received  him  again,  disapproving  entire- 
ly the  outrageous  proceedings  of  some  of  their  consis- 
tory against  his  Reverence.  Therefore  if  the  nomina- 
tion of  D?  is  not  confirmed  no  one  is  better 

entitled  to  the  place  than  the  brother  of  D?  Niecella, 
Minister  at  Surinam,  who  would  certainly  have  been 
ours  [our  Minister]  if  the  congregation  had  been  al- 
lowed to  have  its  choice  and  if  D?  Selynsand  his  party 
had  not  been  opposed  thereto,  and  we  think  it  very  ab- 
surd that  T>  ?  Selyns  and  his  party  are  trying  to  prevent 
that  a  Minister  of  our  neighbourino;  church  should  be 
called  here,  or  from  Surinam,  with  which  place  we  have 
some  commerce  and  consequently  the  opportunity  to  get 
from  there  a  Minister  sooner  and  with  less  expense  than 
from  Holland.  Therefore  our  humble  petition  is  that 
the  E-Gverend  Classis  would  be  pleased  to  order  here  as 
well  as  in  Holland  through  the  Honorable  West  India 
Company,  that  we  and  our  neighbors  may  be  at  liberty 
to  do  so. 

Yesterday  the  20*^  October  both  the  corpses  of  Com- 
mander Jacob  Leisler  and  Jacob  Milborne  were  here 
with  great  solemnity  again  interred  in  our  Dutch 
Church,  their  arms  and  hatchments  of  honor  were  there 
hung  up,  and  they  thereby  as  much  as  possible  restored 
in  their  Honor,  for  which  his  Honor's  son  Jacob  Leisler 
had  received  special  permission  from  his  majesty  to  the 
inexpressible  joy  of  their  families  and  of  the  people 
who  under  him  had  taken  up  arms  for  our  blessed  King 
William.  We  hope  that  herewith  the  discords  which 
so  long  have  tormented  us  will  also  be  buried,  to  which 
our  right  noble  and  wished  for  Governor,  My-lord  Earl 
of  Bellomont  is  doing  his  utmost  devoir,  who  without 
regard  of  persons  with  very  great  equity  and  mildness 
tries  to  do  justice,  having  now  (to  begin  with  the  Lord 
God)  ordered  over  the  whole  land  a  solemn  Day  of  Fast 


412  DOCUMENTS    RELATING    TO    THE 

and  Prayer  exhorting  the  inhabitants  by  a  grave  proc- 
lamation fervently  to  pray  herefor  to  his  Divine  Maj- 
esty, whereto  we  hope  that  the  Lord  will  grant  his 
merciful  blessing — which  blessing  and  mercy  we  desire 
for  Your  Reverences  with  all  our  Hearts. 
N.  York  in  America,  the  2P'  October,  1G98. 


PETITION    AND   REMONSTRANCE    OF    THE    NEW    YORK   HOUSE  OF 
REPRESENTATIVES. 

To  his  Excel!.  Richard  of  Bellomont  Capt  General  (& 
Gov""  in  Cheif  &  Vice  Admiral  in  &  over  his  Maty' 
Province  of  Neiv  York  in  America  &c. 

The  humble  Peticon  &  Remonstrance  of  the  Representa- 
tives of  this  his  Maty^  Province  of  New  York,  Oo7i- 
vend  in  General  Assembly. 

Ma}^  it  please  yo""  Lordship. 

We  y"  Representatives  of  his  Maty^^  Province  Con- 
vened in  General  Assembly,  do  with  all  due  Respect  & 
Humility,  approach  yo""  Lordship,  to  Assure  you,  that 
y®  same  inviolable  Loyalty  w"''  has  hitherto  affected  &  in- 
flamed our  hearts  towards  y^  Crown  &  Goverm*  of 
England,  will  ever  preserve  us  in  a  most  Religious  & 
Steady  Perseverance  therein,  being  thoroughly  sensible 
how  great  a  Blessing  it  is  to  be  subject  to  y''  best  & 
greatest  of  Kings,  &  under  so  noble  a  Constution  of 
La^vs,  as  makes  England  this  day  y"  Envy  of  all  its 
Neighbour  Nations.  Yet  we  cannot  but  with  great 
greif  of  heart  represent  to  yo""  Lordship,  that  we  have 
not  of  late  years  enjoyed  y®  felicity  of  those  Excellent 
Laws,  which  in  their  own  nature  &  designment  arc  to 
Extent  to  all  y^  Subjects  of  y®  Crown,  how  remote  so 
ever,  at  least  Virtually,  &  wherein  y®  Lives,  Liberty es  & 
properties  of  y^  Subjects  are  concerned. 

We  were  very  uneasy  under  an  Arbitrary  Comis- 
sion  in  y®  late  King  James's  Reigne,  which  gave  y*' 
Gov""  of  this  Province,  among  other  Arbitrary  powers, 
that   of  Levying  mony  without  calling  an  Assembly, 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  413 

whereby  we  reckoned  that  our  Lives,  as  well  as  Estates, 
were  subject  to  the  Arbitrary  will  of  a  Gov*",  contrary 
to  the  known  Laws  of  England  ;  &  mony  was  actually 
Levyed  on  us,  pursuant  to  the  illegal  powers  of  the  said 
Comission.  The  exercise  whereof  &  the  dreadfull  vio- 
lence we  also  apprehended  would  be  done  to  our  Con- 
sciences, in  Respect  of  our  Holy  Protestant  Religion, 
from  a  Popish  Arbitrary  King,  made  us  Unanimously 
&  heartily  throw  off  y®  yoke  of  Popish  Tyranny,  &  de- 
clare for  his  then  Highness  y^  Prince  of  ORANGE, 
upon  y®  first  News  we  had  of  his  Glorious  &  Unparral- 
led  Expedition  into  England. 

We  acted  then,  as  we  conceived,  on  a  Right  Princi- 
ple, &  we  were  the  more  Confirmed  in  that  Belief,  because 
we  acted  in  Conceit  &  Conformity  with  y^  Glorious  Peo- 
ple of  England.  But  to  our  great  amazement  and  sor- 
row we  have  suffered  severely  for  our  early  services  to 
King  William  &  y®  Crown  of  England,  most  of  us  in 
our  Liberty  &  Estates,  &  five  of  our  ffriends  (who  had 
the  Honesty  &  Courage  to  stand  in  y®  Gap  when  others 
shamefully  drew  back  &  deserted  y^  Protestant  Cause,  & 
were  therefore  by  Universal  Consent  of  the  People 
thought  most  worthy  to  be  cheif  in  comand,  till  orders 
should  come  from  ENGLAND)  who  fell  a  sacrifice  to 
the  Rage  &  Malice  of  y*  Jacobite  Party  in  this  Province, 
who  tho'  few  in  Number  at  that  time,  had  Never  the 
less  y®  Power  &  influence  to  prevaile  on  y"  weakest  of 
men.  Col.  Henry  Slaughter,  Gov""  of  this  Province,  to 
order  a  Tryal  for  those  brave  men,  &  appoint  such  a 
sett  of  Judges,  as  by  principle  &  prejudice,  would  not 
faile  to  gratifie  y^  malice  of  their  Party,  as  they  did  un- 
der a  forme  of  Law,  which  made  it  the  more  Cruel  & 
Arbitrary,  the  said  Tryal  being  ordered  by  the  Gov'.  & 
managed  by  the  Bench  Contrary  to  all  the  Rules  of 
Justice  &  Humanity ;  for  we  are  able  to  make  appear,  if 
thereunto  required,  that  never  a  Revolucon  was  carried 
on  &  mannaged  with  more  moderation  in  any  part  of  the 
Christian  World. 

And  further  for  instance  y^  weakness  as  well  as  y* 


414  DOCUMENTS    RELATING    TO    THE 

Cruelty  of  y^  said  Gov",  in  appointing  Nicholas  Bayard, 
William  Nicolls  (lately  suspended  by  yo""  Lord'p  from 
his  Matys  Council)  and  Several  others  so  mannag'd  the 
tryal  against  Cap^  Leisler,  M^  Milbourn,  &  the  other  Six 
Prisoners  who  were  all  their  a  Vowed  Enemies,  &  bore  a 
mortal  grudge  to  the  saidCaj)t.  Leisler,  for  their  haveing 
been  by  him  imprisoned  in  y®  Fort,  for  opposeing  the 
late  happy  Revolucon  &  endeavoring  to  raise  a  Tumult 
among  the  People,  &  disturb  y®  peace  of  the  Government, 
and  for  telling  Capt.  Leisler  to  his  face,  That  the  Par- 
liament of  England  Voting  and  enacting  y®  Thrones 
being  Vacant,  was  nonsence,  that  there  was  no  such 
thing  possible  in  Nature,  nor  could  be  by  y^  Laws  of 
England.  Gov'  Slaughter  too  by  Lodging  in  Nicholas 
Bayards  house  was  the  more  pressed,  &  sooner  prevail- 
ed on  by  Bayards  Importunity  to  sign  the  Warrant 
of  Execucon.  And  as  an  Infallible  token  of  the  share 
he  had  in  that  Council,  there  was  a  fflag  hung  out  of  a 
Window  of  his  House  for  two  days  together,  before  the 
day  of  of  Execucon,  as  a  Trophy  &  Signal  of  the  Point 
gained  by  him  on  y*  said  Gov*^,  &  of  the  Victory  over 
the  Lives,  not  only  of  Innocent,  but  most  deserving 
men.  In  those  days  it  was,  when  y®  Protestant  Subjects 
were  disarmed,  &  Papists  Armed,  Nay  y®  Publick  faith 
of  Government  was  Violated ;  for  a  Peprieve  had  been 
sealed  to  respit  y®  Execution  of  those  Gentlemen,  un- 
till  his  matys  pleasure  should  be  known ;  yet  before  this 
could  be  known  his  maty  they  were  Executed.  And 
notwithstanding  the  Gov""*  Proclamation,  to  invite  such 
as  fled  to  shun  y^  hard  fate.  Several  whereof  were  never- 
theless fined  &  Imprisoned ;  &  certainely  more  had  un- 
dergone y®  hard  fate  of  Capt.  Leysler  &  Mr.  Milbourn, 
had  it  not  been  for  Gov""  Slaughter  s  suddain  Death,  & 
the  reflection  he  had,  tho'  too  late  of  this  Barbarous  & 
unwarrantable  strange  Execution.  This  was  y^  end  of 
Capt.  Leysler  &  Mr.  Milbourn,  y^  former  whereof  has 
Expended  £2700  out  of  his  own  proper  Estate,  for  y* 
service  of  his  maty,  as  was  made  appear  to  a  Comittee 
of  this  House.     These  were  the  Days   of  Wrath  and 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  415 

utter  Darkness,  so  that  we  must  say  with  y®  Apostle, 
Wo  unto  them,  for  they  have  gone  in  y^  way  of  Cain. 

Then,  Contrary  to  his  Matys  Letters  Pattents, 
Kichard  Ingoldsby,  a  hot  headed  inconsiderate  person, 
&  a  Simple  Capt  of  foot,  is  made  Comander  in  Cheif ; 
&  in  all  the  time  of  his  Administracon,  Oppression  is 
still  continued.  Nor  could  y®  change  of  Gov'*  remedy 
y®  same,  by  y^  coming  of  Coll  Fletcher,  who  altho,  no 
"blood  spilt,  yet  bruised  y"  Bone  of  y^  remnant  left,  and 
made  his  Goverment  an  Entire  mass  of  Corruption,  by 
Encourageing  Pyracy  &  Unlawful  Trade,  &  giveing  away 
almost  all  y"  Vacant  Lands  in  y*  Province,  to  a  few  dis- 
affected &  undeserving  men,  neglecting  y^  fi-ontieers  of 
this  Province  &  packing  Representatives  to  serve  in  Gen- 
eral Assembly,  Imbezilling  &  Squandering  a  way  the 
Revenue  &  other  publick  monys.  Setting  Atheistical 
Persons  in  places  of  greatest  Trust  in  y^  Goverm*.  All 
w^hich,  &  many  more  Instances  of  his  male  Administra- 
tion, as  we  are  informed,  have  been  already  transmitted 
to  England  by  yo""  Lordship. 

The  Representatives  Convened  in  General  Assembly, 
takeing  notice  of  what  was  done  herein  for  releif,  by  that 
most  Senate,  y®  Parliament  of  England,  in  Reversing  of 
the  Attainders  of  Jacob  Leysler,  M""  Milborn  &  others, 
cannot  but  with  y®  greatest  of  Zeal,  and  fervency  of 
affection  send  up  their  Prayers  to  y^  great  maty  of  Hea- 
ven &  Earth  for  y^  Preservation  of  his  matys  Roval  Per- 
son, &  of  that  most  Excellent  Constution  &  for  y® 
Ministers  of  State,  the  influence  of  whose  wdse  &  honest 
Council,  is  felt,  even  at  this  vast  Distance  from  England. 
And  in  humble  Confidence  of  his  matys  goodnes,  we 
humbly  pray  yo'  Excell  to  lay  before  his  maty  this  our 
humble  Peticon,  hoping  that  the  same  good  Angel  who 
led  yo'  Excell  to  attend  his  maty,  when  Prince  of 
Orange;  in  his  Glorious  Expedition  for  England,  & 
brought  yo'  Excell  safe  amongst  us,  to  j^ut  a  stop  to  y* 
oppressions  we  groaned  under,  will  now  move  yo'  Lord" 
in  our  behalf,  to  interceed  with  his  maty  for  our  Relief 
(although  as  Christians  w^e  would  forgive  our  Enemies 


416  DOCUMENTS  EELATING  TO  THE 

&  oppressors)  That  lie  would  be  graciously  pleased  to 
Extend  of  his  Royal  Bounty  &  Favour  on  y®  Families 
of  the  said  Leisler  &  Milbourn  &  also  order  y®  Sum  of 
Two  thousand  Seaven  hundred  Pounds  to  be  paid  unto 
her  (&  that  care  be  taken  to  pay  such  Debts  as  are 
owing  for  what  was  Expended  in  y"  late  happy  Revolu- 
con  in  this  Province)  in  Consideracon  of  their  suiferings 
&  services  for  his  matys  Interest  &  this  Province. 

That  for  y^  better  Administracon  of  Justice  five  able 
Judges  be  sent  from  England  (&  two  or  three  able 
Council,  who  have  acquired  to  that  noble  profession  by 
study,  &  not  by  Usurpation)  for  the  mainteinance 
whereof  we  shall  not  be  wanting. 

That  Coll.  Fletcher  s  Coat  of  Arms  may  be  pulled 
down  from  y^  Kings  Chappell  in  y^  Fort,  &  Trinity 
Church  in  this  Citty  ;  that  since  he  left  no  monument 
of  Virtue  &  a  Just  Administration,  those  of  his  Nau- 
tious  &  Insupportable  Pride  &  Vanity,  may  not  remain 
to  Posterity,  especially  since  his  birth  was  so  mean  & 
obscure  as  that  he  was  not  entituled  to  bear  a  Coat  of 
Arms. 

All  w''''  y®  Representatives  again  humbly  move  yo' 
Excel! .  to  lay  before  his  maty,  together  with  our  most 
Inviolable  Loyalty  &  Obedience  to  his  Matys  Comands. 
By  order  of  the  House  of  Representatives. 

Abra  :  GouvERNEUR,  Speaker. 
[May  15th,  1699.] 


DEPOSITION  OF  ABRAHAM  GOUVERNEUR. 

The  Deposition  of  Abraham  Gouverneur  of  the  City 
of  New  York  of  full  age  being  duly  sworn  on  y®  holy 
evangelists  of  our  Lord  God  deposeth  and  saith  that 
some  time  in  the  year  of  our  Lord  God  One  Thousand 
Six  hundred  Eighty  Nine  and  Ninety  he  this  deponent 
was  in  the  city  of  New  York  and  during  y^  time  of 
Capt"  Jacob  Leisler's  government,  Clark  of  the  Councill, 
at  which  time  this  deponent  did  see  that  the  said  Leisler 
did  expend  great  sums  of  money  on  the  King  s  account 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  417 

out  of  the  proper  estate  of  him  the  said  Leisler,  and 
particularly  a  briganteen  of  his  being  coming  from  Eng- 
land the  greatest  part  of  what  she  brought  for  his  ac- 
count was  sent  to  supply  y*"  souldiers  on  ye  fronteers  of 
Albany,  and  some  part  to  the  Garrison  of  Fort  William 
Henry  in  this  City,  and  he  this  deponent  further  saith 
that  of  his  knowledge  the  s''  Leisler  when  some  mer- 
chants were  unwilling  to  credit  the  Government,  he  gave 
his  own  bonds  or  notes  to  pay  them,  and  this  deponent 
further  declares  that  the  said  Leisler  did  often  speak  to 
his  son  Jacob  Leisler  who  kept  the  Books  of  y®  s*^  dis- 
bursement &  account  to  see  how  much  had  been  paid  in 
an  account  of  the  government  and  what  was  paid  out 
by  him  and  accordingly  some  little  time  before  the  ar- 
rival of  Major  Richard  Ingoldesby,  the  said  Jacob 
Leisler  did  in  the  presence  of  him  sum  up  the  same  and 
found  that  the  said  Leisler  had  been  out  on  account  of 
the  government  more  than  he  had  received  either  two 
thousand  seven  hundred  or  two  thousands  five  hundred 
pounds.  And  this  deponent  further  adds  that  the  said 
Leisler  did  often  tell  this  to  severall  persons  in  this  de- 
ponent's hearing  professing  to  shew  it  them  in  y®  book 
but  their  answer  was  generall  that  thej'  did  believe  it 
and  that  it  could  not  be  otherwise.  And  this  Deponent 
further  says  that  the  said  acc*^*  were  kept  in  a  large  book 
which  had  been  brought  from  Port  Royal  by  Capt°  Go- 
deris,  it  being  one  of  the  books  of  Records  of  that 
place,  the  which  said  book  to  this  deponent  certain  know- 
ledge was  by  the  said  Leisler  left  in  y^  fort  amongst 
many  other  Books  and  Papers,  that  very  morning  he 
delivered  y''  fort  to  Col'.  Sloughter  s  order  but  since  al- 
tho  a  great  many  Endeavors  have  been  used  the  said 
Book  is  not  to  be  found  or  heard  of,  and  further  this 
depon'  Saith  not. 

Abraham  Gouverneur. 
New  York  the  21*'  Aug^'  99. 

Then  appeared  before  me  Abraham  D'Peyster,   Esq^ 
one  of  his  Majesty's  council  for  the  Province  of  New 

27 


418  DOCUMENTS    RELATING   TO    THE 

York  the  above  named  Abraham  GDUverrieur  and  on 
his  Corporall  Oath  declared  to  the  truth  of  this  depo- 
sition Witness  my  hand  day  and  year  above  s'^. 

A.  D.  Peister. 
On  the  back  was  written 
a  true  copy 
Bellomont. 


petition    of   JACOB   LEISLER. 

To  the  Kings  most  Excellent  Majesty — The  humble 

petition  of  Jacob  Leisler. 
Sheweth 

That  Capt"  Leisler  deceased  your  petitioner's  late  fa- 
ther was  chiefly  instrumental  in  promoting  your  maj^^' 
interest  at  New  York  in  America  in  y®  late  happy  revo- 
lution in  which  conjuncture  he  did  not  only  expose  his 
life  to  y''  utmost  hazard  but  did  expend  in  buying  armes 
and  other  necessaries  on  that  occasion  above  four 
thousand  pounds,  of  which  sum  there  did  appear 
to  y®  Maj'^'  assembly  sufficient  evidence  of  your  peti- 
tioner's Father  disbursing  two  thousand  seven  hundred 
pounds. 

Yet  notwithstanding  such  his  signal  services  by  the 
influence  and  malice  of  your  maj^^^  and  his  Enemies 
who  were  deeply  engaged  in  y"  Interest  of  y®  late  King 
James  he  Avas  convicted  under  y''  forme  of  Justice  for  a 
supposed  high  Treason  which  was  easily  found  when  some 
of  y^  Jury  were  reputed  Papists  under  y^  direction 
of  y""  Maj^y'^  late  gov""  Col°  Henry  Slaughter  &  Joseph 
Dudley,  president  who  ordered  y®  execution  of  your 
petitioner  s  lal^e  father  without  sending  over  for  your 
Maj^^'  direction  leaving  Alice  Leisler  his  relict  and  y' 
Petif  his  only  Son  with  six  daughters  in  very  deplora- 
ble circumstances,  having  in  a  great  measure  exhausted 
all  their  substance  in  supplying  y^  publick  necessities. 

That  upon  application  made  to  y*"  Parliament  here 
in  England,  both  houses  were  so  fully  satisfied  upon  y^ 
proofs  made  before  them  touching  your  petitioners  said 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  419 

late  Fathers'  services  that  an  Act  of  Parliament  had 
lately  passed  for  the  reversing  of  his  attainder,  and  y® 
representatives  for  y®  Province  of  New  York  Convened 
in  generall  Assembly  have  signified  likewise  their  sense 
of  your  Petitioner's  fathers  services  &  sufferings  &  losses 
for  your  Maj^^^^  Service,  to  his  ExcelP^  Richard  Earl  of 
Bellomont  your  majesty's  governour  of  that  Province 
to  y®  end  that  the  same  may  be  humbly  represented  & 
have  recommended  your  Pet',  as  a  fitt  object  of  your 
Maj*y'  favor  and  bounty  &  that  the  same  sum  of  two 
thousand  seven  hundred  pounds  be  paid  to  your  Pe- 
titioner. 

Yo'  Petit'  therefore  humbly  prays  that  yo'  Maj*'' 
would  be  graciously  pleased  to  direct  that  y®  s**  money 
may  be  paid  to  yo""  Pef  at  New  York  and  that  he  may 
receive  suche  farther  marks  of  y'  Maj'^^  great  compas- 
sion and  Bounty  as  to  your  Maj^^,  in  your  great  wisdom 
and  Justice  shall  seem  most  meet. 

And  your  Petitioner  shall  ever  pray 

Jacob  Leisler. 


THE  earl  of  JERSEY  TO  THE  EARL  OF  BELLOMONT. 

Whitehall  y'  6th  February  ]^ll 
My  Lord, 

The  King  being  moved  upon  y®  petition  of  Mr.  Ja- 
cob Leisler  and  having  a  gracious  sence  of  his  father's 
services  and  sufferings  &  y*"  ill  circumstances  y**  Peti- 
tioner [&  his  family  are]  is  thereby  reduced  to  ;  his  maj'^ 
is  pleased  to  direct  that  y*  same  be  transmitted  to  your 
Lordship  &  that  you  recommend  his  case  to  y*  general 
assembly  of  New  York  being  y^  onl}'  place  where  he 
can  be  relieved  and  the  prayer  of  his  petition  complyed 
with.      I  am,  my  Lord,  Your  Lord'ps 

Most  obedient  &  most  humble  Servant 

Jersey. 

This  letter  was  directed  to  the  Earl  of  Bellomont  and  is  inserted  in  Smith's  History  ofNeio 
York,*  page  100,  only  the  words  included  in  [brackets]  are  not  to  be  found  in  it.  It  was 
wrote  by  the  Earl  of  Jersey.    [Du  Simitieee.] 

[*  Edition  of  1757.    P.  140,  Ed.  1776;  P.  141,  Ed.  1829;  P.  162,  Ed.  1830.] 


420  DOCUMENTS    KELATING   TO   THE 

JACOB  MAURITZ'S  BILL  OF  DISBURSEMENTS,  ETC. 

[Translated  from  the  original  in  Dutch,  by  S.  Alofsen,  Esq.] 

Copy  of  an  Account  rendered  hy  Capt.  Jacob  Mauritz 
to  the  Commissioner  appointed  hy  the  Assembly  to 
examine  the  Accounts  of  the  Government. 

Account  of  Moneys  Disbursed. 

1692 

31  May.    At  Sundry  times  to  Jacob  Leisler  ;^88    6    6 

10  June.    To  Jacob  Leisler  and  Johannes  Provoost  15     5 

£\oz  II    6 

By  Mr.  John  Manley  advocate  at  sundry 

times  54     i  10 

By  cash  to  Johannes  Provoost  892 

Jacob  Willemse  Roome     Holland  courant  f.  6 

Daniel  De  Klerck  200 

For  account  of  the  Ship  the  Bear  17  11     6 

By  cash  to  John  Thomas  6  10    o 

For  an  order  for  the  condemned  and  to  take 

recognizance  and  other  expenses  29    4    6 

By  extraordinary  Expenses  for  various  dec- 
larations and  having  been  12  times  in 
Whitehall  sometimes  more  than  20  per- 
sons and  more  other  expenses  for  which 
account  the  sum  of  /'50  pound  sterling 
and  signed  Jacob  Mauritz 

JoH.  Provoost 
Jacob  Leisler 
John  Thomas  50    o    O 


Yet  charged  to  me  in  account  by  Mr.  Cullen 

and  obliged  to  make  good  to  him  by  in- 

terest on  ^147  for  2  years   amounting 

to                                                                                                               ;^l8 

For  a  treat  at  Deal  to   Governor 

Fletcher                                                                  5 

Letter  postage                                                            6     10 

29  10    0 

Sum  f.  6 

£zox  13    6 

Deduct  for  amount  paid  by  Jacob  Leisler  to 

Mr.  Cullen  ;i^i03  11     6 

and  that  for  account  of  the  Ship  the  Bear  17  11     6 

and  of  Daniel  De  Klerck  200 


123     3    o 


Sum  total  f.  6  ;^I78  10    6 


1689  &  90  By  cash  to  Joost  StoU  in  England  as  per  his 
acct.  and  signature  being         ;^2i   4  6, 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  421 


and  are  credited  to  me  by  Governor  Leis- 
ler  and  his  Council  the  sum  of  about  £2S     ° 

■V-  May  By  lb  300  fine  and  new  gunpowder  a  10  gl  per  lb  75     o 

Yet  fetched  from  my  wife  by  Sergeant  Johan- 
nes Burger  lb  100  sheet  lead  at  6d  per  lb  25 


New  York  money  ;^II2     5     O   ^^^178  10  6 

Holl'ds  i  6 
Yet  for  beef  and  Pork  fetched  into  the  fort 
when  Major  Ingoldsby  was  blockading 
the  fort  about  lb.  200  a  300. 
Doubt  not  but  your  Honor  will  take  care  and 
take  into  consideration  that  the  moneys 
disbursed  besides  the  Interest  and  other 
losses  suffered  therefrom  will  be  paid. 

New  York  the  11  June  Ao.  1701-0. 

Errors  Excepted 

Jacob  Mauritz. 


JACOB  LEISLER  S  PETITION  TO  THE  GOVERNOR  AND  COUNCIL. 
[Read  In  Council,  etc.  October  ISth,  1701.] 

To  the  Hon^^^  John  Nanfan  Esq""  Lieut*  Govern'^  &  Com- 
mander in  Chief  of  this  Province  of  New  York  and 
the  hon^^^  Council  of  the  Same  in  general  assembly 
convened. 
The  Humble  Petition  of  Jacob  Leisler  Son  and  heir  of 

Jacob  Leisler  deceased. 
Sheweth 

That  whereas  the  house  of  representatives  now  in 
general  assembly  convened  having  taken  into  their  serious 
considerations  his  maj'^*  directions  relating  to  your  peti- 
tioner and  considering  his  father  s  sufferings  and  dis- 
bursements layd  out  by  him  and  others  his  Maj^^*  good 
subjects  of  this  province  in  the  time  of  the  late  happy 
revolution  for  the  defence  of  this  province  in  the  late 
warr,  and  have  thereupon  passed  a  bill  to  pay  the  debts 
afores*^  Entitled  an  act  for  paying  the  debts  of  the  go- 
vernment made  in  y^  time  of  y^  late  happy  revolution 
and  finding  by  the  votes  of  the  house  that  the  same  is 
sent  up  to  your  Honours, 

He  therefore  humbly  prayes  your  honours  to  take 
your  petition'"*  Case  into  your  serious  consideration  and 


422  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

that  you  would  be  pleased  to  give  your  assent  to  the 
said  JBill  that  your  Petitioner  and  others  may  after  so 
long  a  time  receive  satisfaction  for  their  honest  ser- 
vices and  disbursements  whereby  your  Petitioner  hum- 
bly conceives  his  majesty's  directions  may  be  complyed 
with  otherwise  your  petitioner  will  be  frustrated  (at 
least  for  a  long  while)  of  his  maj*^^  royal  favour  to  him 
in  said  orders  Expressed. 

And  your  Petition''  as  in  duty  bound  shall  pray,  k"^. 

Jacob  Leisler. 


JACOB   leisler  S   ACCOUNT   OF    THE    DEBT    OF  THE   COLONY  OF 
NEW   YORK   DUE    HIM. 

COLONY  OF  NEW  YORK  DR.  TO  JACOB  LEISLER. 

To  divers  Supplys  and  Supports  of  the  government  of  the  Colony 
aforesaid  and  other  Charges  and  Expenses  made  in  the  time 
of  the  late  happy  revolution,  amounting  to  the  sum  of  Two 
Thousand  Seven  Hundred  Pounds,  which  said  sum  of  Two 
Thousand  Seven  Hundred  Pounds  was  granted  by  an  act  of 
the  general  assembly  of  the  Colony  aforesaid,  Entituled  an  Act 
for  paying  the  debts  of  the  government  made  in  the  time  of  the 
late  happy  revolution  to  be  payd  to  the  said  Jacob  Leisler  in 
such  manner  and  at  such  times  as  in  and  by  the  said  [Act]  was 
regulated,  but  remaned  unpayed  hitherto.  jC^joo    O    O 

N.  York,  Feb^  i8'h  1712. 

p"'  Jacob  Leisler. 

On  the  back  of  the  above  account  was  written  the  Endorsement  as  in  the  Index  [the  title 
of  this  paper]  and  underneath    Lib.  B.  fol.  49,  50.    Read  y"  15th  May,  1714.  [Dtj  Simitiere.] 


PETITION    OF  JACOB    LEISLER. 

To  the  Hon'''"  the  House  of  Representatives  for  the  Colo- 
ny of  New  York  now  Convened  in  general  assembly. 
The  humble  Petition  of  Jacob  Leisler. 
Sheweth 

That  his  late  sacred  Maj*^  King  William  in  or  about 
y®  month  of  February,  iny''  year  1700,  directed  his  then 
Excellency  the  Lord  Bellomont  then  Governour  of  this 
Province  to  recomend  your  petitioner's  Case  to  the  then 
Hon'''®  House  of  Representatives  for  relief  therein. 
Whereupon  y^  s*  Hon'''®  house  on  or  about  the  year  of  our 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    LEISLER.  423 

Lord  1702 :  passed  an  act  for  the  payment  of  2700*' 
unto  y''  Peti'  which  also  passed  the  then  Lieut*  Gov'  & 
Council. 

And  y'  Petit""  further  sheweth  unto  your  hon''*  that 
the  said  sum  of  2 700** and  every  part  thereof  remaining 
unpaid  to  your  Petitioner,  yo'"  pef"  lately  brought  in  his 
claim  of  the  said  debt  to  the  Commissioners  appointed 
by  this  honourable  house  to  inspect  into  the  debts  of  the 
government  and  y''  Pef  is  desirous  to  give  your  Hon""^  all 
possible  sattisfaction  how  and  in  what  manner  the  said 
sum  became  due,  but  the  books  papers  and  accounts  relat- 
ing thereunto  by  misfortune  being  destroyed  y''  Petitioner 
is  unable  to  lay  before  your  hon"  the  Particulars  there- 
of. 

Your  Hon"  Petitioner  therefore  humbly  prays  yo' 
hon''®  to  take  into  your  Serious  Consideration  y''  Circum- 
stances of  yo''  Petitioners  Case  and  to  afford  your  hon" 
petitioners  such  relief  as  to  this  hon^^®  house  shall  seem 
meet. 

And  your  Hon''  petif  Shall  ever  Pray,  &*^- 
24  April,   1714.  Jacob  Leisler. 

On  the  back  under  the  endorsement  was  ■written— Read  28  April  and  committed  toy 
Committee  qfy  trhote  House  to  whom  his  Excellency'' s  speech  is  referred.    [Du  Simitierb.] 


MEMORANDA    MADE    BY    DU    SIMITIERE. 

It  appears  by  the  different  papers  I  have  perused 
relating  to  Mr.  Jacob  Leisler,  Junior — 

1.  From  Nicholas  CuUen's  letters  in  Mr.  Ahm.  Gouv- 
er^ieur's  possession^ 

That  he  was  in  London  lodged  at  the  White  horse 
in  Birchin  lane  in  August,  1695. 

That  Sir  Henry  Ashurst  employed  himself  in  his 
behalf. 

That  Mr.  Nicholas  Cullen,  merchant  of  Dover  was 
his  correspondent  and  banker. 

That  Lord  Bellomont  at  Sir  Henry  Ashurst's  table 


424  DOCUMENTS  RELATING  TO  THE 

asked  Mr.  Leisler  if  lie  would  go  with  him  back  to  New 
York.  He  was  not  at  that  time  confirmed  in  his  gov- 
ern* beginning  of  August,  1695. 

That  Nicholas  Cullen  advised  him  to  accept  of  the 
offer. 

That  Ab™  Gouverneur  was  in  London  with  Leisler  in 
April,  1696. 

2.  From  Original  Bill  of  Costs  at  Ahm.  Gouv- 
erneur's^ 

The  bill  of  cost  of  Mr.  Leisler  prosecuting  his  bill  in 
Parliament  after  the  recommitment  amounted  to  about 
18  Pounds  sterling  beside  the  trouble  &  pains  of  the 
attorney  to  be  what  he  please  dated  April  29  1685. 

His  case  was  printed  in  London. 

3.  From  Original  Quittance  at  Mr.  Ahm.  Gouv- 
erneur s^ 

Jacob  Milborne  was  in  New  York  in  7'''"  1685  &  had 
then  a  letter  of  attorney  of  Sir  Thomas  Griffith,  Knight 
of  London,  dated  the  24  day  of  April  1684  to  receive 
for  him  the  sums  due  by  Jacob  Leisler  which  having 
done  he  gave  him  a  quittance  dated  y^  30  T^'^  1685 — 
the  original  I  have  seen  in  the  possession  of  Mr.  Ab™ 
Gouverneur. 

Neiv  Yorh^  May  31.  1769.  I  have  been  informed  by 
Mr,  Buvelot  who  had  it  from  old  W^.  Boutecou's  own 
mouth  that  she  came  in  New  York  from  France  during 
the  time  that  Leisler  had  the  Government  that  she  and 
her  family  were  well  received  by  him,  that  he  spoke 
French,  that  he  was  a  Swiss  &  that  mentioning  a  S\viss 
colonel  in  the  french  service  at  that  time  of  the  same 
name,  he  said  it  was  his  brother. 

Mrs.  Farmer,  daughter  of  Ab™  Gouverneur  who 
married  Milborne's  widow  told  Mr.  Hartier  a  few  days 
after  the  above  date,  that  Mr.  Leisler  had  retired  from 
France  for  the  persecution  and  was  an  elder  of  the 
French  Church  in  New  York,  but  if  so  it  must  have 
been  long  before  the  Hevocation  of  the  Edict  of  Nants 


ADMINISTRATION   OF   LEISLER.  425 

as  Mr.  Leisler  is  mentioned  in  the  list  of  taxables  in 
1674. 

One  Mrs.  Latham  about  30  years  ago  was  living  in 
New  York  &  said  then  to  a  lady  of  my  acquaintance 
that  she  lived  in  Leisler's  family,  that  she  helped  at  the 
laying  of  him  out  &  that  his  head  was  sewd  to  his  neck, 
that  his  body  was  open  at  the  place  of  execution,  & 
the  executioner  was  taking  out  the  hart  as  it  was  said 
to  bring  to  a  lady  who  had  promised  him  a  reward  for 
it  but  a  gentleman  present  j)revented  him  from 
doing  it.  Saying  why  he  should  offer  such  insult 
to  a  man  that  never  injured  him.  Milbourne  was  not 
dead  when  the  Executioner  took  him  down  from  the 
gallows  &  lifted  up  his  arm  as  if  to  pare  [parry]  the 
blow  of  the  ax  that  was  to  cut  his  head  off  they  were 
buried  in  a  ground  belonging  to  Leisler  to  the  east  of 
the  Commons  of  the  city  near  the  corner  of  a  street 
caird  George  St.  in  the  new  Plan  of  the  city  it  was  also 
said  that  a  very  short  time  before  their  Execution  they 
had  assurances  given  to  them  by  the  Governour  that 
not  a  hair  of  their  head  should  be  touched,  but  the 
Bayard  party  having  invited  him  at  a  wedding  enter- 
tainment of  one  of  their  family  they  made  him  drunk 
&  then  prevailed  on  him  to  Sign  the  death  warrant  & 
they  were  hurried  to  the  execution.  Leisler  apj)eared 
insensible  &  said  nothing  but  Milbourne  kept  up  his 
spirit  &  encouraged  him,  the  governour's  wife  had  often 
at  the  instigation  of  the  Bayard  party  upon  her  knees 
expostulate  the  governour  to  put  an  end  to  their  life 
&  it  was  said  that  after  his  death  she  lived  in  New 
York  obscure  and  miserable.  Leisler  people  were 
called  Black 'people  and  Bayard's  White  People.  Stories 
were  propagated  of  Leisler  s  apparition  riding  in  a 
Coach  at  the  place  he  was  buried.  Leisler  was  a  great 
owner  of  lands  at  New  Rochelle  &  one  of  the  first 
settlers. 

I  have  from  another  person  that  it  was  said  that  at 
the  execution  a  woman  took  up  the  heart  of  Leisler  & 
said  it  was  the  heart  of  a  traitor  this  seems  improbable. 


426  DOCUMENTS,    ETC. 

Leisler's  warrant  of  Death  [was]  signed  Thursday  14 
May  1691 — him  &  Milbourne  executed  Saturday  16 
do.  It  is  said  they  sung  at  the  gallows  the  79th  psalm. 
[They  were]  Reburyed  in  the  old  Dutch  Church  on  20 
8*^^''  1698  during  a  very  great  Snow  Storm  as  I  was 
informed  by  a  person  present  who  is  still  living  1769. 

Nicholas  Bayard  opposed  Leisler  &  was  kept  con- 
fined in  the  fort  14  months,  at  his  release  he  was 
sworn  one  of  the  Council  &  not  little  instrument  of 
Leisler's  ruin  in  Nanfan's  time  he  was  arrested  for  high 
treason,  tried,  &  condemned  the  Leisler  party  having 
then  the  uppermost  he  was  from  time  to  time  respited 
owing  as  it  was  said  to  certain  sums  of  money  that  were 
from  time  to  time  paid  by  his  family  to  the  lieut.  gov. 
but  according  to  the  anecdote  the  children  grew  tired  of 
disbursing  so  much  &  expostulated  with  their  father 
that  he  should  let  himself  be  hanged  (in  Dutch  Vadej^ 
hafigh  maei\  at  once  for  if  he  should  continue  longer 
to  pay  for  his  life  they  would  soon  be  all  ruined. 

From  another  Quarter  I  learned  that  Bayard 
while  under  condemnation  should  have  said  that  if 
the  walls  of  the  prison  should  be  made  of  paper  he 
would  not  come  out  because  they  were  telling  him  he 
might  run  away.  Bayard  was  condemned  for  high 
treason  March  16.  1701.  See  his  trial  at  large  in  the 
State  Trials  Vol.  V.  from  page  419  to  440. 


INDEX. 


INDEX. 


Acadie,  the  attack  on,  51,  53 ;  the  inhab- 
itants of,  aid  the  Indians  in  their  at- 
tacks on  New  England,  124  ;  the 
destruction  of,  124;  the  capture  of, 
considered,  126. 

Albany,  N.  Y.,  an  estimate  of  the  general 
charge  for  the  defence  of,  166;  the 
Dutch  of,  supply  the  Esopus  Indians 
with  ammunition,  with  which  to  mur- 
der the  Dutch  at  Esopus,  185;  action 
of  the  inhabitants  of,  at  the  Revolution 
in  Boston,  249,  259  ;  state  of  affairs  at. 
May,  1689,  266 ;  young  men  of,  desire 
to  invade  Canada,  266  ;  Leisler's  order 
in  reference  to  persons  from,  303. 

Albany  Expedition,  noticed,  296. 

Albemarle  County,  N.  C,  refuses  to  com- 
ply with  the  wishes  of  Ludwell,  82. 

Alden,  John,  Captain,  operations  of,  on 
the  Acadian  Coast,  53. 

Allen,  Samuel  (see  New  HampsWre), 
127. 

AUyn,  John,  Colonel  (see  Revolution  in 
Boston),  248. 

American  Colonies,  Circular  Letters  to 
the,  from  the  Prince  of  Orange,  12, 
36  ;  orders  of  the  Privy  Council  of 
England  to  the  governors  of,  Feb. 
1689, 13,  36,  37  ;  a  new  plan  of  Union 
of  the  Northern,  149;  the  Mutual 
Union  of  the,  162 ;  lamentable  state  of 
the,  161 ;  the  establishment  of  a  De- 
mocracy in,  recommended,  162;  Repre- 
sentation of  the  Board  of  Trade  to  the 
Lords  Justices  in  September,  1696, 
with  regard  to  the  then  state  of  the, 
170. 

Amsterdam,  the  Classis  of,  Letter  from 
Members  of  the  Dutch  Church  in  New 
York  to,  398  ;  the  Classis  of,  noticed, 
188. 

Andros,  Sir  Edmond,  the  imprisonment 
of,  27 ;  his  circular  letter  of  Oct.  16, 
1688,  20 ;  appointed  governor  of  Vir- 


ginia, 48;  leads  his  soldiers  against 
the  Indians  in  New  England,  50,  87 ; 
noticed  by  Frontenac,  89  ;  his  admin- 
istration in  Virginia,  95  ;  his  disagree- 
ment with  the  Virginia  House  of  Bur- 
gesses, 97  ;  appointed  provisional 
governor  of  Maryland,  104 ;  corres- 
pondence of,  quoted,  163;  the  charac- 
ter of,  considered  by  Cadwallader  Col- 
den,  187  ;  his  government  a  despotism, 
187;  his  religious  character,  188;  im- 
prisons the  governor  of  New  Jersey, 
188 ;  his  education  and  principles, 
189  ;  his  administration  at  Boston, 
190;  appointed  governor  of  Virginia, 
and  his  service  there,  190 ;  acquainted 
with  the  invasion  of  England  by  the 
Prince  of  Orange,  242 ;  taken  in  cus- 
tody by  the  people  of  Boston,  244 ; 
action  of  the  inhabitants  of  the  Jerseys 
on  the  seizure  of,  247  ;  letter  from  the 
Lt.  Gov.  and  council  of  New  York  to, 
of  May  1,  1689,  250  ;  verbal  instruc- 
tions of,  to  George  Wedderburne,  263  ; 
noticed;  39,  61,  256,  257,  259,  261, 
291,  306,  359,  368,  373,  399. 

Andros,  Ensign,  seized  at  Boston,  244. 

Annapolis  becomes  the  capital  of  Mary- 
land, 107. 

Anne,  Queen,  change  in  the  ministry  of, 
200. 

AntiU,  Edward,  noticed,  322,  344,  351, 
352,  355. 

Antwerp,  account  of  the  capture  of,  194. 

Arbuthnot,  Dr.,  his  friendship  for  Gov. 
Hunter,  196. 

Arehdale,  John,  appointed  governor  of 
Carolina,  158  ;  his  administration,  159; 
his  justice  to  the  Indians,  159. 

Articles  of  surrender,  "  do  they  justify  " 
illicit  trade  with  Holland?  183. 

Ashurst,  Sir  William,  agent  for  Massa- 
chusetts, 141. 

Athanasian  Creed,  Archbishop  Tillotson 


430 


INDEX. 


wished  the  church  could  get  fairly  rid 
of  the,  215. 

Baker,  William,  noticed,  322. 

Baltimore,  Lord,  appearance  before  the 
Committee  of  Plantations,  Feb.  1689, 
14  ;  deposed,  17 ;  the  case  of  the  for- 
feiture of  the  charter  of,  16,  77,  92; 
deprived  of  his  income,  101 ;  taxes 
are  restored  to  him,  101. 

Band,  Capt.  (see  Riggs),  299. 

Barry,  Andrew,  noticed,  290. 

Bath,  Earl  of,  member  Privy  Council, 
William  and  Mary,  noticed,  37. 

Bayard,  Balthazar,  noticed,  273,  274, 
275,  277. 

Bayard,  Nich.,  Col.,  noticed,  241,  243, 
245,  284,  324,  370,  391;  a  "Ring- 
leader "  in  the  Revolution  at  New 
York,  376,  376,  379  ;  abused  by  Capt. 
Laysler  (Leisler),  269,  270;  thinks  it 
imprudent  for  him  to  appear  in  arms 
other  than  a  private,  26,8. 

Bayard,  Samuel,  noticed,  277. 

Bayley,  Stephen,  noticed,  252. 

Baxter,  Jervas,  Major,  is  allowed  to  with- 
draw to  New  Jersey,  267 ;  noticed, 
368,  370,  371. 

"Beaver,"  the  ship,  arrived  at  New 
York,  318. 

Beekman,  Gerard,  Justice  of  the  Peace 
in  New  York,  noticed,  295. 

Beekman,  Gerardus,  Major,  Leisler's 
warrant  to,  301  ;  under  sentence  of 
death,  petitions  the  Queen,  333 ;  pro- 
ceedings of  the  Privy  Council  on  the 
petition  of,  337;  Letter  to  Nicolas 
Collen,  Sept.  29,  1698,  334;  deposi- 
tion of,  relative  to  the  conduct  of  Gov. 
Fletcher,  347. 

Beekman,  Capt.,  noticed,  296,  290. 

Bellomont,  Lord,  aspires  to  the  govern- 
ment of  Massachusetts  Bay,  121;  ap- 
pointed governor  of  Massachusetts 
Bay,  1 27 ;  his  delay  in  leaving  Eng- 
land, 127;  (see  New  Hampshire),  128  ; 
nature  of  his  commission,  165  ;  grants 
a  writ  of  possession  to  the  widow  of 
Jacob  Leisler,  390 ;  Petition  and  Re- 
monstrance of  the  New  York  House  of 
Representatives  to,  412;  noticed,  202, 
391,  392,  393,  410,  411. 

Berkeley,  Sir  William,  noticed,  48. 

Berry,  John,  Capt.,  of  East  Jersey,  no- 
ticed, 247. 

Blackiston,  Judge  for  Probate  of  Wills 
in  Maryland,  noticed,  104. 

Blackwell,  John,  Gov.,  misrule  of,  in 
Pennsylvania,  75  ;  noticed,  241. 


Blackwell,  William,  merchant  of  Boston, 
noticed,  242. 

Blagge,  Benj.,  Capt.,  noticed,  243,  244. 

Blair,  Rev.  James,  Commissary  of  the 
Bishop  of  London,  noticed,  49. 

Blake  assumes  the  government  of  Caro- 
lina, 159. 

Blathwayt,  Wm.,  Secretary,  his  connec- 
tion with  the  creation  of  the  New 
England  Charter,  90 ;  noticed,  167, 
291. 

Bleeker,  Jan  Janse,  Capt.,  noticed,  296. 

Board  of  Trade,  the  establishment  of, 
161,  163  ;  Representations  of  the,  to 
the  Lords  Justices,  in  September, 
1696,  with  regard  to  the  then  state  of 
the  Colonies,  170. 

Bomazeeu,  the  Indian  warrior,  the  cap- 
ture of,  119. 

Boscawen,  Hugh,  noticed,  90. 

Boscawen,  J.,  member  of  Privy  Council 
of  William  and  Mary,  noticed,  37. 

Bosch,  Albert,  noticed,  297,  370. 

Boston,  Mass.,  the  Revolution  at,  22,  23, 
the  "Council  of  Safety  "  of,  24;  King 
WilUam  and  Queen  Mary  proclaimed 
in,  26  ;  New  York's  "  miserable  union  " 
with,  74;  The  Revolution  at,  142; 
Administration  of  Sir  Edmund  Andros 
at,  190;  Declaration  of  the  inhabitants 
of,  for  taking  Gov.  Andros  into  cus- 
tody, 244 ;  Action  of  the  Common 
Council  of  New  York,  at  the  Revolu- 
tion in,  245,  246  ;  Some  account  of 
the  Revolution  in  1689,  248  ;  Arrival 
at  New  York  of  soldiers  from,  action 
thereon,  287 ;  Proclamation  of  William 
and  Mary  in,  373. 

Bowne,  John,  Captain,  of  East  Jersey, 
noticed,  247. 

Bradstreet,  Simon,  declared  governor  of 
Massachusetts,  25  ;  Letter  of,  to  Lord 
Shrewsbury,  88 ;  retires  from  the  gov- 
ernment of  Mass.,  109 ;  see  the  arrest 
of  Gov.  Andros.  251 ;  noticed,  261,  266. 

Bradshaw,  George,  Capt.,  noticed,  304. 

Brazier,  Abraham,  Leisler's  orders  to, 
concerning  the  block  house  at  New 
York,  310  ;  under  sentence  of  death, 
petitions  the  Queen,  333  ;  noticed,  354. 

Brenton,  Mr.,  reinstatement  of,  as  Col- 
lector of  Boston,  117. 

Brockholls,  Anthony,  Major,  noticed, 
264,  266. 

Brodhead,  Daniel,  settles  at  Marbletown, 
185. 

Bromfield,  William  ;  see  Quakers,  39. 

Brook,  Chidley,  Mr.,  noticed,  392,  393. 

Brooks,  Thomas,  noticed,  242. 


INDEX. 


431 


Browne,  John  D.,  noticed,  273,  2*74,  289. 

Bullivant,  Benjamin,  his  diary  noticed, 
88  ;  seized  at  Boston  with  Gov.  An- 
dros,  244. 

Billion,  George,  Capt.,  noticed,  322. 

Burnet,  Bishop,  Letters  to,  froni  Leisler, 
concerning  the  Quakers,  38 ;  obliga- 
tions of  the  royal  family  of  England  to, 
2X1. 

Burnet,  Governor,  his  instructions  in  re- 
ference to  acting  governor  Schuyler's 
"  perquisites,"  206  ;  his  reason  for  con- 
tinuing the  Assembly,  207  ;  The  Case 
of  Mr.  Rou  and  the  French  Congrega- 
tion in  New  York,  207 ;  Refuses  to 
qualify  Mr.  De  Lancey  as  member  of 
the  Assembly,  210;  The  Case  of  Phil- 
lipse  and  Codringtone,  213  ;  His  study 
of  the  Scripture  Prophecy,  214  ;  His 
Christian  character,  215;  His  care  for 
the  Province  of  New  York,  216  ;  Pre- 
vents the  trade  with  Canada,  216; 
True  reasons  for  his  removal  from 
office,  217  ;  Col.  Montgomerie  succeeds 
him  in  office,  217 ;  appointed  governor 
of  Massacliusetts,  218  ;  his  course  with 
the  people,  219;  his  death,  219; 
donates  land  to  the  Germans,  199  ;  see 
Connecticut  boundary  line,  225. 

Cadogan,  Mr.,  at  the  battle  of  Ramillies, 
194;  at  Antwerp,  194,  195. 

Campbell,  Laughlin,  some  account  of  his 
settlement  in  America,  226,  231 ;  re- 
port of  a  Committee  of  Council  on  the 
land  grant  case  of,  233 ;  his  petition 
to  the  Council,  234. 

Canada,  people  of,  revengeful  against 
New  York,  68 ;  Schuyler's  expedition 
into,  74  ;  the  conquest  of,  resolved  on 
by  William,  in  1692,  114;  the  failure 
of  the  project,  116;  distress  in,  after 
Frontenac's  expedition,  147  ;  trade 
with,  prohibited  by  Gov.  Burnet,  216  ; 
prohibition  on  trade  with,  taken  off, 
220 ;  the  invasion  of,  desired  by  the 
young  men  of  Albany,  266 ;  the  in- 
vasion from,  noticed,  403. 

Canterbury,  Archbishop  of,  noticed,  90  ; 
Lord  Justice,  noticed,  166. 

Capel,  H.,  member  Privy  Council  of 
William  and  Mary,  noticed,  37. 

Carohnas,  the,  action  of,  on  the  accession 
of  William  and  Mary  to  the  throne  of 
England,  30;  the  'pirates  of,  159; 
affairs  in,  in  1694,  158;  Archdale  ap- 
pointed governor  of,  158. 

Carter,  a,  shot  at  the  fort  in  New  York, 
349. 


Cartwright,  Madame,  of  Ossington,  no- 
ticed, 290. 

Chalmers,  George,  Political  Annals  of  the 
United  Colonies  of  America,  5. 

Chandos,  Duke  of,  his  connection  with 
Connecticut  boundary  lands  explain- 
ed, 225. 

Charter  of  the  province  of  Massachusetts 
Bay,  64. 

Chaplains,  generally  ignorant  of  the 
world,  57. 

Charles  the  First,  King,  the  executioner 
of,  226. 

Charlton,  Francis,  noticed,  90. 

Chelseldyne,  Mr.,  noticed,  100. 

Chess,  Mr.  Rou's  Treatise  on  the  game 
of,  209. 

Chester,  Bishop  of  (see  Protestants), 
368. 

Christ,  his  miracles  considered,  215. 

Chubb,  Capt.,  cruelty  of,  at  Pemaquid, 
122,  123. 

Church,  Colonel,  destroys  Acadia,  124. 

Church,  the,  operations  of,  in  New  York, 
201. 

Church  of  England,  her  rights  in  Mary- 
land, 101. 

Churchill,  Lieut.,  see  New  York,  346  ;  ac- 
count of  what  passed  when  he  came 
before  the  Court,  311. 

Clarke,  Thomas,  Leisler  orders  the  re- 
duction of  the  forces  raised  by,  on 
Long  Island,  302 ;  see  Long  Island,  305. 

Clarke,  George,  his  intimacy  with  Gov. 
Montgomerie,  220 ;  his  connection  with 
the  promised  grants  of  land  to  Laughlin 
Campbell,  228,  231 ;  account  of  land 
grants  to,  227. 

Clarke,  Walter,  noticed,  248. 

Clarkson,  Secretary,  noticed,  391. 

Classis  of  Amsterdam,  Letter  from  mem- 
bers of  the  Dutch  Church  in  New  York 
to  the,  398. 

Clerck,  Capt.  (see  Riggs),  299. 

Clock,  Albert,  noticed,  345. 

Codington,  Thomas,  Sheriff,  noticed,  347. 

Codrington,  Gen.,  noticed,  319. 

Codringtone  and  Phillipse,  the  case  of, 
212. 

Coerten,  Myndert,  Letter  to  Nicolas  Col- 
len,  Sept.  29,  1693,  334  (see  Courten). 

Coker,  Thomas,  noticed,  281. 

Colden,  C.adwallader,  His  History  of  the 
Five  Nations  quoted,  91 ;  Letters  to 
his  Son,  on  Smith's  History  of  New 
.York,  181, 187, 192,  206,  214,  219,  226, 
23i) ;  his  views  of  the  miracles  of  Christ, 
215. 

Colinge,  Richard,  noticed,  334,  365. 


432 


INDEX. 


Collen,  Nicolas,  Letter  from  Gerardus 
Beekman  and  Myndert  Coerten  to, 
Sept.  29,  1693,  334. 

Colleton,  Gov.,  of  South  Carolina,  "  made 
an  example  of  for  abuse  of  trust," 
81  ;  noticed,  83. 

Colliton  County,  Carolina,  the  French 
refugees  of,  84. 

Connecticut,  action  of,  in  the  Revolution 
in  New  England,  1688,  28  ;  Sir  Wil- 
liam Phips  appointed  governor  of,  6*7 ; 
refuses  to  aid  New  York  against  the 
French,  73  ;  Gov.  Fletcher  receives  the 
military  command  of,  133;  conduct  of 
Gov.  Fletcher  in,  134,  135,  136,  139; 
sends  Winthrop  as  agent  to  England, 
138 ;  agreement  for  a  partition  line  be- 
tween New  York  and,  223  ;  sets  up  a 
new  government,  259. 

Convers,  Capt.,  surprises  a  party  of 
French,  at  Wells,  Maine,  116. 

Coode,  John,  captures  the  State  House, 
at  St.  Mary's,  Maryland,  16  ;  appointed 
commander-in-chief  of  the  province  of 
Maryland,  18;  the  profligacy  of,  108. 

Cooke,  Elisha,  appointed  agent  for  New 
England,  61 ;  representations  in  Eng- 
land, 88;  noticed,  91. 

Copley,  Colonel,  rewarded  with  the  gov- 
ernment of  Maryland,  77,  93  ;  dissolves 
the  convention  of  Maryland,  99  ;  death 
of,  103  ;  noticed,  102,  164,  169. 

Cornbury,  Lord,  his  pleasure  house  on 
Nutten  Island,  204. 

Cortlandt,  Col.,  the  treatment  of,  by  Leis- 
ler,  379,  383 ;  noticed,  363. 

Cosby, Wm.,  Gov.,  his  proclamation  prom- 
ising grants  of  land  to  emigrants,  22*7, 
231;  land  grant  of,  233,  234. 

Council  of  Safety,  the,  of  Massachusetts, 
24. 

Court  of  Chancery,  account  of  the  re- 
solves of  the  New  York  Assembly 
against  the,  211. 

Courten,  Mindert,  under  sentence  of 
death,  petitions  the  Queen,  333. 

Courtmanche  ,  Lieut,   (see  Fronte- 

nac),  130. 

Cox, ,  the  messenger  from  William, 

ordering  the  expedition  against  Cana- 
da, in  1692,  114. 

Coyler,  Henry,  deposition  of,  370 ;  (see 
Cuyler),  297. 

Crew,  Lord,  noticed,  298. 

Cromwell,  Oliver,  noticed,  75. 

Crundall,  Thomas,  noticed,  272,  274,  275, 
276. 

Culpepper,  Lady,  petitions  for  a  confirma- 
tion of  title  to  lands  in  Virginia,  47. 


Culpepper's  Rebellion,  noticed,  80. 

Cuyler,  Henry,  Lieut.,  deposition  concern- 
ing Governor  Nicholson,  370 ;  noticed, 
277. 

Cuyler,  Hendrick,  noticed,  297. 

Daille,  Peter,  Dominie,  a  French  minister 
at  Boston,  noticed,  407. 

Danforth,  Thomas,  declared  Lieut  Gov. 
of  Massachusetts,  25. 

Daniel, ,  of  Carolina,  excepted  from 

pardon,  84. 

D'Avenant,  works  of,  quoted,  1*70  ;  re- 
commends Penn's  plan  of  union  for 
the  colonies,  176. 

Dawson,  Thomas,  aflBdavit  of,  on  the 
state  of  affairs  at  New  York,  January, 
1691,  318. 

De  Bruyn,  John  Hendrick,  Capt.,  mutiny 
of  the  men  of,  at  New  York,  269  ;  no- 
ticed, 324. 

De  Brayn, ,  373,  (see  De  Bruyn). 

Decanasora,  the  Indian  chief,  his  account 
of  his  embassage  to  Canada,  143. 

Des  Champs,  Isaack,  noticed,  242. 

De  Kay,  Theunis  (see  Dutch  church), 
398  ;  noticed,  273,  274,  275,  276. 

De  Kleyn,  Leendert  Huygen,  noticed, 
345. 

De  Lancey,  James,  Lieut.  Gov.,  Dutch 
massacre  of  Indians  near  the  site  of  his 
house,  18G;  Gov.  Burnet  refuses  to  qual- 
ify him  as  a  member  of  the  Assembly 
of  New  York,  210  ;  his  party  ascendant 
in  the  New  York  Assembly,  220. 

De  La  Noy,  Peter  (see  George  Dolstone), 
317;  noticed,  273,  274,  275,  276,  298, 
299,  328,  351,  357,  377. 

De  La  Plyne,  Nicholas,  seizure  of,  at  New 
York,  "269. 

Delamere,  member  of  Privy  Council  of 
William  and  Mary,  noticed,  37. 

Delaware  River,  inhabitants  bordering  on 
the,  surrender  to  the  Dutch,  184. 

Dellius,  Godfrey,  Dominie,  noticed,  409. 

De  Mayer, ,  Leisler  accuses  him  of 

pilfering,  296. 

Democracy,  the  establishment  of  a,  re- 
commended for  the  American  colonies, 
162. 

De  Peyster, ,  Capt.,   mutiny  of  the 

men  of,  at  New  York,  269. 

De  Peyster,  Abraham,  petitions  the  city 
not  to  run  the  line  of  fortifications 
through  his  lands,  281 ;  noticed,  273, 
274,  277,  289,  292,  314,  322,  324,  347, 
873,  417. 

Depreciation  of  Securities,  the  effect  on 
nations  as  well  as  individuals,  59. 


INDEX. 


433 


De  Reimer,  Isaac,  affidavit  of,  in  the  case 
of  Leisler,  324  ;  noticed,  322. 

Deuken,  Gerrit,  noticed,  296  (see  Duy- 
king). 

Devonshire,  member  Privy  Council  of 
William  and  Mary,  noticed,  37. 

De  Widt,  Boudewijn,  affidavit  of,  in  the 
case  of  Leisler,  323. 

"  Dewitted,"  the  Jacobites  escape  being, 
372. 

D'Iberville,    ,    French   commander, 

generosity  of,  at  Pemaquid,  123. 

Diderich,  Hans,  appointed  capt.  of  the 
Bergen  Co.  militia,  247. 

Digges, ,  Col.  action  of,  in  the  in- 
surrection in  Maryland,  in  1689,  16. 

Dionondadies,  the  Inuian  tribe  of,  noticed, 
135. 

Dischington, ,  Mr.  seizure  of,  at  New 

York,  269. 

Divorce,  power  of  granting,  in  New  York, 
187.  a  benefit  to  a  new  country,  187. 

Dmill,  P.,  Ensign,  orders  of  Leisler  to, 
concerning  the  blockhouse  at  New 
York,  310. 

Dolstone,  George,  affidavit  of,  in  reference 
to  the  capture  of  the  fort  at  New  York, 
314. 

Dongan,  Thomas,  Gov.,  his  administration 
in  New  York,  191  ;  his  acts  of  assem- 
bly, 191 ;  his  expedition  noticed,  254; 
the  people  of  New  York  desire  his  re- 
turn to  the  city,  284 ;  Leisler's  oppo- 
sition to,  306. 

DuBois,  Louis,,  noticed,  296. 

Dudley,  Joseph,  Col,  Leisler's  letter  to, 
304  ;  at  the  trial  of  Leisler,  323  ;  the 
"  Cobweb  eloquence"  of,  388  ;  noticed, 
311,  348,  351,  355,  363,  388. 

Dufour,  Samuel  Paul,  deposition  of,  con- 
cerning Mr.  Giiggs,  298. 

Du  Simitiere,  extracts  from  the  Collec- 
tions of,  see  Leisler,  364. 

Dutch,  the  measures  of,  to  appease  the 
Indians  at  Onondaga,  69 ;  pretensions 
of  the,  to  the  New  Netherlands,  182  ; 
the,  of  Albany ;  their  treachery  at 
Esopus,  185  ;  inhumanity  of  the,  at 
New  York,  185,  186  ;  historians  cover 
up  their  cruelties,  186  ;  join  the  Eng- 
lish to  "  curb  the  French,"  256. 

Dutch  Church,  answer  of  the  wardens 
of  the,  in  New  York,  concerning  the 
reburial  of  Leisler  and  Milborne  in 
their  church,  397 ;  letters  from  the 
members  of  the,  to  the  Classis  of 
Amsterdam,  398. 

Dutchmen,  rebeUious  at  New  York, 
291. 

28 


Dutch  States  General,  surrender  the  gov- 
ment  of  New  York,  183. 

Duyking,  Garratt,  Leisler's  orders  to,  con- 
cerning the  blockhouse  at  New  York, 
310. 

Duycking,  Gerardus,  notice  of,  345. 

Edsall,  Samuel,  noticed,  299. 

Effingham,  Lord,  see  Howard. 

Elective  Franchise,  considered  by  Cad- 
wallader  Golden,  205  ;  an  American 
Assembly  cannot  be  governed  by  rea- 
son, 206. 

England,  reign  of  James  the  Second 
in,  reviewed,  5  ;  revolution  of  1689-90, 
5 ;  accession  of  William  and  Mary  to 
the  throne,  6  ;  proceedings  of  the  Par- 
hament  of,  May,  1689, 10 ;  the  invasion 
of,  from  Holland,  King  James'  letter 
thereon,  33;  McPhei  sou's  Secret  His- 
tory of,  quoted,  38  ;  events  in,  in  1691, 
94 ;  the  merchants  of,  discourage  the 
Maryland  planters,  106  ;  the  kindness 
of  the  ministry  of,  to  the  Five  Nations, 
148  ;  deplorable  condition  of  the  com- 
merce of,  160  ;  the  soldiers  of,  com- 
pel the  peace  at  Esopus,  185 ;  inva- 
sion of,  by  the  Prince  of  Orange,  241 ; 
list  of  papers  sent  to,  by  the  hand 
of  Joost  Stol,  297. 

EngUsh,  humanity  of,  displayed  at  Eso- 
pus, 185  ;  join  the  Dutch  to  "curb  the 
French,"  256. 

Ennis,  Allesander,  the  English  Preacher, 
noticed,  297. 

Episcopal  Ordination,  a  cause  of  dissen- 
sion in  the  Dutch  church,  188. 

Erie,  Lake,  operations  of  the  French  on 
the,  145. 

Esopus,  New  York,  the  inhabitants  of, 
surrender  to  the  Dutch,  184;  Indians 
attack  the  Dutch  at,  185. 

Ewell,  Robert,  noticed,  241. 

Excise  on  Strong  Liquors,  notice  of  an, 
in  New  York  in  1713,  202,  203. 

Fairfax,  Lord,  petitions  for  a  confirma- 
tion of  title  to  lands  in  Virginia,  47. 

Fairfield  County,  Conn.,  letter  from  the 
Lt.  Gov.  and  Council  of  X.  Y.  on  the 
invasion  by  the  French  to  the  people 
of,  263. 

Five  Nations,  the  negotiations  of  the,  in 
reference  to  the  Canadian  invasion, 
131  ;  Frontenac's  expedition  against 
the,  m  1696,  146  ;  council  of,  at  Onon- 
daga, Dec.  1689,  69,  91 ;  treaty  with 
France,  142 ;  treaty  with  the  EugUsh, 
143  ;    Gov.   Hunter's   interview    with 


434 


INDEX. 


the,  concerning  the  expedition  to  Can- 
ada, 198;  noticed,  135,  175. 

Fletcher,  Benjamin,  Col.,  appointed  gov- 
ernor of  New  York,  74  ;  arrival  of,  at 
New  York,  128  ;  the  activity  of,  at  the 
invasion  of  New  York,  131  ;  his  kind- 
ness to  the  Mohawks,  132  ;  commands 
in  Connecticut,  133  ;  his  promises  to 
the  Five  Nations,  143  ;  his  course  with 
them,  144 ;  invested  with  power  over 
Pennsylvania,  150;  his  government  in 
Pennsylvania,  151,  152;  extract  from 
the  commission  of,  as  governor  of 
Pennsylvania,  168;  letter  of  Penn  to, 
168  ;  order  of  Privy  Council  to,  333  ; 
action  of,  in  the  case  of  Beekman's  and 
Gouverneur's  petitions,  347 ;  sanctions 
the  publication  of  "  A  Letter  from  a 
Gentleman,"  etc.,  365 ;  character  of  the 
administration  of,  see  Bellomont,  Peti- 
tion to,  415  ;  his  administration  con- 
sidered, 389;  noticed,  90,  107,  135, 
136, 137,  140,  148,  149,  166,  167,  357, 
390,  393. 

Flipsen,  Frederick,  noticed,  322,  826, 
331 ;  see  Phillipse. 

Forat,  ,  the  deposition  of,  concern- 
ing the  Quakers,  38. 

Foster, ,  Capt.,  noticed,  355. 

Foulke, ,  Col.,  noticed,  114. 

Free  Schools,  see  Virginia,  48. 

France,  the  intentions  of,  toM'ards  New 
York,  68  (see  Frontenac);  defeats  every 
project  for  the  annoyance  of  Canada, 
132,133;  reinforces  Frontenac,  133; 
treaty  between  the  Five  Nations  and, 
142. 

French,  the  threatened  depredations  of, 
in  Virginia,  45  (see  Acadie,  51-55); 
the  Five  Nations  prepare  against  the 
invasion  of  N.  Y.  by  the,  69  ;  form  a 
design  upon  Albany,  73 ;  bravery  of 
the,  at  La  Prairie,  74;  depredations 
and  cruelties  of  the,  in  New  England, 
111;  operations  of,  around  the  lakes 
Ontario  and  Erie,  145  ;  alarm  at  New 
York,  apprehending  an  invasion  of  the, 
253. 

French  and  Indian  War,  124,  125. 

French  Congregation,  in  New  York,  the 
case  of  Mr.  Rou  and  the,  207. 

French  Refugees,  the,  of  CoUiton  County, 
Carolina,  84. 

French,  Philip,  seizure  of  at  New  York, 
269 ;  Speaker  of  the  House  of  Repre- 
sentatives of  New  York,  397. 

Frontenac,  Count.  His  defence  of  Que- 
bec in  1688,  56;  is  sent  to  Canada 
from  France,   68 ;  his   answer   to  Sir 


William  Phips,  at  Quebec,  89  ;  invades 
New  York,  130  ;  reintbrced  from 
France,  133 ;  expedition  of,  against  the 
Five  Nations  in  1696, 146 ;  noticed,  143. 

Garton,  Thomas,  settles  at  Marbletown, 
185. 

George, ,  Capt.,  seized  with  Gov.  An- 
dres, at  Boston,  244. 

George  the  First,  misunderstanding  with 
his  son,  217. 

George  the  Second,  noticed,  217. 

Germans,  imported  to  NewYork  to  make 
pitch  and  tar,  197;  enlisted  in  the 
English  army  and  sent  against  Canada, 
198  ;  industry  and  usefulness  of  the, 
in  New  York,  during  the  administration 
of  Gov.  Burnet,  199. 

Gerritts,  Nicholas,  seizure  of,  at  New 
York,  269. 

Goderis,  Francis,  Capt.,  sails  under  a  com- 
mission from  Leisler,  361 ;  noticed,  827, 
344. 

Goelet,  Jacobus,  noticed,  345. 

Gouverneur,  Abraham,  escape  into  New 

■  England,  140 ;  under  sentence  of  death, 
petition  to  the  Queen,  333 ;  proceed- 
ings of  the  Privy  Council  on  the  peti- 
tion of,  337  ;  petition  of,  to  the  House 
of  Lords,  339 ;  deposition  of,  21st 
August,  1699,  416;  noticed,  364-390. 

Graham,  James,  noticed,  365. 

Graham, ,  Mrs.  (see  Riggs),-299. 

Gfeenbury, ,  noticed,  104.   ' 

Greverard,  Andrew  (see  Leisler),  359. 

HaUfax,  Marquis  of.  Letter  from  Matthew 
Plowman  to  the,  290,  291. 

Halifax,  C.  P.  S.,  noticed,  37. 

Hamilton,  Andrew,  Col.,  partisan  of 
James  the  Second,  noticed,  10,  247, 
264  ;  declares  his  willingness  to  serve 
Gov.  Andros,  265,  266. 

Hampden,  John,  noticed,  90. 

Hampden,  R  ,  member  of  Privy  Council 
of  William  and  Mary,  noticed,  37. 

Handlers,  the,  definition  of  the,  185. 

Hardenberg,  Gerrit,  noticed,  295,  296. 

Harcourt,  Sir  Simon,  referred  to,  40. 

Harison,  Francis,  action  of,  on  the  ques- 
tion of  the  boundary  between  Connec- 
ticut and  New  York,  225. 

Hartford  County,  Conn.,  letter  from  the 
authorities  of  New  York,  to  the  people 
of,  on  the  threatened  invasion  by  the 
French,  263. 

Haynes,  Bryan,  the  player  (see  Protes- 
tants), 368. 

Haynes,  John,  noticed,  277. 


INDEX. 


435 


Hervile,  ,  surprises  Schenectady,  69. 

Hicks, ,  Col.  (see  account  of  Gov. 

Burnet's  refusal  to  qualify  De  Lancey), 
210,  211. 

Hicks,  Jasper,  at  the  trial  of  Leisler,  323. 

Hicks,  Thomas  (see  Long  Island),  305. 

Hill,  Abraham,  noticed,  175. 

Hinks,  John  (see  New  Hampshire),  127. 

Holland,  Duke  of  Marlborough's  army  in, 
193  ;  illicit  trade  with,  justified,  183. 

Holt,  Chief  Justice,  action  in  the  case 
of  Lord  Baltimore's  charter,  77,  78; 
his  letter  in  reference  to  the  charter  of 
Lord  Baltimore,  92;  noticed,  113. 

Howard  (of  EfiBnghani)  Francis,  Lord, 
Gov.  of  Virginia,  arrives  in  England, 
and  is  called  on  to  answer,  43 ;  his 
case  described,  44  ;  noticed,  48. 

Howard,  Ko : ,  member  of  Privy  Council 
of  William  and  Mary,  noticed,  37. 

Howell,  Matthew,  Major  (see  Suffolk  Coun- 
ty, N.  Y.),  252,  253. 

Hudson's  Kiver,  the  Dutch  settlements 
on  the,  183. 

Hunter,  Robert,  Gov.,  account  of  his 
services,  192;  his  service  in  Holland, 
193;  at  the  Battle  of  Ramillies,  194; 
at  the  capture  of  Antwerp,  195 ; 
meets  the  displeasure  of  the  Duke  of 
Marlborough,  195,  196;  obtains  the 
government  of  Virginia,  196  ;  captuied 
by  the  French  and  returns  to  Eng- 
land, 196  ;  offered  the  governorship 
of  Jamaica,  but  declines,  196;  ap- 
pointed Governor  of  New  York,  196; 
his  administration,  196,  197;  The 
"  Pitch  and  Tar "  manufactory,  197  ; 
trouble  with  the  Germans,  198;  in- 
terview with  the  Five  Nations  of  In- 
dians, 198  ;  the  Expedition  to  Canada, 
199;  his  caution  at  public  meetings, 
200 ;  not  a  High  Churchman,  200 ; 
his  calmness  under  difficulties,  202 ; 
composes  the  farce  "  Androborus," 
202  ;  has  his  demands  paid,  203  ;  relin- 
quishes his  government,  204. 

Hutchinson,  Thomas,  Gov.,  his  History 
of  Massachusetts  Bay  noticed,  39 ; 
History  quoted,  165. 

Indians,  threatened  depredations  of,  in 
Virginia,  44,  45 ;  commence  hostiU- 
ties  on  the  frontiers  of  New  England, 
50  ;  the  reduction  of,  by  liquor,  106  ; 
wars  of  the,  in  New  England,  111;  ne- 
gotiations with  those  of  Maine,  116; 
a  fatal  disease  rages  among  those  of 
New  England,  121 ;  break  their  treaty 
with  New  England,  1 22 ;  massacre  of, 


at  Pemaquid,  122  ;  French  presents  to 
the,  134;  firmness  of  the,  at  Onondaga, 
144 ;  account  of  the  tight  at  Esopus, 
185;  massacre  of,  by  the  Dutch  at 
DeLancey's  farm,  186;  Col.  Peter 
Schuyler's  spurious  sachems,  2uO ; 
trade  with  the,  recommen-ced,  221  ; 
an  invasion  of  New  York  by,  appre- 
hended, 253;  intentions  of  the  Lt. 
Governor  and  Council  of  New  York 
towards  the,  256,  258,  259;  see  Mo- 
hawk Indians,  70 ;  see  Five  Nations, 
69,  91,  198;  see  Dionondadies,  135; 
see  John  Archdale,  159. 

Ingoldsby,  Richiird,  Major,  assumes  the 
governorship  of  New  York,  73  ;  com- 
mission of,  as  Captain,  299 ;  his  letter 
demanding  the  fort  at  New  York,  300 ; 
his  warrant  to  Capt.  Samuel  Moore, 
30') ;  Leislcr's  declaration  or  protest 
against  Ingoldsby,  306 ;  ordered  by 
Sloughter  to  take  possession  of  the 
fort  at  New  York,  310;  ut  the  trial  of 
Leisler,  323;  "a  hotheaded,  inconsid- 
erate person,"  415;  noticed,  302,  3(i9, 
315,  316,  318,  319,  320,  323,  324, 
329,  330,  339,  841,  349,  350,  352,  353, 
354,  355,  357,  358,  361,  362,  863,  364, 
382,  383,  384,  403,  405,  417. 

Ireland,  proceedings  of,  at  the  accession 
of  William  and  Mary  to  the  throne 
of  England,  9 ;  neglected  by  Prince 
William,  9;  Declaration  of,  Feb.,  1689, 
10;  the  government  of,  a  "govern- 
ment of  rebels,"  12;  hand-in-hand 
with  Massachusetts  in  1689,  31 ;  emi- 
grants from,  to  Pennsylvania,  227. 

Jackson,  John,  Capt.,  of  Queen's  Co., 
N.  Y.,  noticed,  247,  254,  255. 

Jacobites,  the  followers  of  James  the 
Second,  368. 

Jacobse,  Hendiick,  Corporal,  account  of 
Gov.  Nicholson's  treatment  of,  292. 

Jacobsen,  Peter,  noticed,  346. 

James  the  Second,  review  of  the  reign 
of,  ^ ;  effect  of  his  abdication,  6  ;  ad- 
monished by  Louis  the  Fourteenth,  20 ; 
the  misconduct  of,  recited,  33 ;  his 
Circular  Letter  to  the  Colonies  giv- 
ing notice  of  an  intended  Dutch  in- 
vasion, 33 ;  serves  the  Popish  cause, 
188  ;  see  Classis  of  Amsterdam,  398  ; 
noticed,  187,  366,  369. 

James  the  Sixth,  the  Scotch  prerogatives 
of,  9. 

Jamison,  David,  the  character  of,  391. 

Jeffers,  Thomas,  affidavit  of,  on  the  slate 
of  affairs  in  New  York,  319. 


436 


INDEX. 


Jephson,  William,  noticed,  36. 

Jerseys,  the,  action  of,  on  the  accession 
of  William  and  Mary,  30  ;  without  a 
gbvernmcnt,  30 ;  the  state  of  the,  in 
1689,  76;  action  of  the  inhabitants 
of,  on  the  seizure  of  Gov.  Andros,  247. 

Jesuits,  see  Classis  of  Amsterdam,  398. 

Johnson,  Thomas,  at  the  trial  of  Leisler, 
323. 

Jowles, ,    Colonel,    his    action    in 

Maryland  in  1689,  15;  noticed,   100. 

Keck,  S.,  noticed,  318,  319,  327. 

Keerslee,  Hans,  noticed,  277. 

Kmg,  Peter,  noticed,  277. 

King's  County,  New  York,  see  Gerardus 

Beekman,  301. 
Kipp,  Johannes,  see  Dutch  Church,  398; 

noticed,  272,  274,  275,  276. 

La  Hogue,  the  effect  of  the  victory  of,  on 
the  trade  of  the  Colonies,  160. 

Lake  Champlain,  Winthrop's  expedition 
to,  55. 

Land  Grants,  see  Gov.  Cosby's  proclama- 
tion, 227,  231. 

LaNoue ,  Lieut,  (see  Frontenac),  130. 

La  Prairie,  Canada,  surprised  by  Schuy- 
ler, 74. 

Lawrence,  John,  alderman  of  New  York, 
272,  275,  276;  see  disturbances  in 
New  York,  286,  289  ;  at  the  trial  of 
Leisler,  323. 

Lawrence,  Sir  Thomas,  reinstated  Sec- 
retary of  the  province  of  Maryland, 
104. 

Laws  of  Trade  in  force  in  New  York, 
183. 

Legal  Affairs,  see  Court  of  Chancery,  211. 

Leggit, ,  seized  with  Gov.  Andros 

at  Boston,  244. 

Leisler,  Jacob,  the  usurpations  of,  30; 
letters  to  Gov.  Bumet,  relative  to  the 
Quakers,  noticed,  38  ;  forgets  to  sup- 
ply transportation  across  Lake  Cham- 
plain,  for  Winthrop's  troops  on  route 
for  Canada,  56  ;  his  action  after  the 
massacre  at  Schenectady,  70  ;  his  op- 
position to  Gov.  Sloughter,  71 ;  trial 
and  execution  of,  72 ;  the  difficulties 
of  his  administration,  202,  203  ;  his 
party  in  the  Assembly  increases,  203  ; 
his  soldiers  and  others  who  had  served 
under  him,  are  paid  their  demands, 
203 ;  documents  relating  to  the  ad- 
ministration of,  241  ;  appointed  a  com- 
missioner to  ask  Col.  Dongan  to  return 
to  the  city  of  New  York,  285 ;  letter 
to  Ingoldsby,  March  5th,  1690,  305 ; 


the  adherents  of,  pardoned,  140 ;  his 
action  on  the  appearance  of  shipping 
in  the  bay  of  N.  Y.,  268 ;  his  answer 
to  the  Council  of  New  York,  289  ;  his 
warrant  and  instructions  to  Johannes 
Provost,  295;  witnesses  Saml.  Paul 
Dufour's  deposition,  299  ;  see  Richard 
Ingoldsby,  300 ;  warrant  to  Major 
Gerardus  Beekinan,  301 ;  order  for 
reducing  the  forces  raised  by  Thomas 
Clarke  and  others  on  Long  Island,  N. 
Y.,  302  ;  answer  to  Ingoldsby  concern- 
ing prisoners  in  the  Fort  at  New  York, 
302 ;  order  concerning  pei'sons  from 
Albany  and  Ulster,  N.  Y.,  303 ;  letter 
to  Ingoldsby  of  March  1,  169|,  304; 
letter  to  Colonel  Joseph  Dudley,  March 
4,  1690,  304  ;  declaration  or  protest 
against  Ingoldsby,  306 ;  attempt  to 
make  him  odious  to  the  province  of 
New  York,  308;  letter  to  Colonel 
Sloughter,  at  Bermuda,  309  ;  orders  to 
Capt.  Garratt  Duyking,  Abraham 
Brazier  and  others  concerning  the 
blockhouse  at  New  York,  310  ;  affidavit 
of  George  Dolstone  in  the  case  of,  314  ; 
proclamation  of  William  and  Mary  by, 
314 ;  affidavit  of  Thomas  Dawson  in 
relation  to,  318;  afiSdavit  of  Thomas 
JefFers  in  relation  to,  319;  affidavit  of 
Jacob  Teller  in  relation  to,  321 ;  affi- 
davit of  Boudewijn  DeW^idt  in  the  case 
of,  323 ;  affidavit  of  Isaac  De  Reimer  in 
the  case  of,  324 ;  French  ships  seized 
by  order  of,  327  ;  affidavit  of  Killian 
Van  Rensselaer  in  the  case  of,  328 ; 
order  in  Council  upon  the  petition  of 
his  son,  331  ;  order  of  the  Privy  Coun- 
cil Oi  the  Queen,  in  the  cases  of  per- 
sons arrested  for  assisting,  333  ;  peti- 
tion of  the  widow  and  family  of,  to  the 
Queen,  335 ;  petition  to  the  King  to 
reverse  the  attainders,  336 ;  state  of 
the  case  of,  as  proved  at  New  York, 
359  ;  the  case  of,  considered  fully,  362 ; 
a  letter  from  a  gentleman  of  the  City 
of  New  York  to  another,  concerning 
the  troubles  which  happened  in  that 
Province  in  the  time  of  the  late  happy 
Revolution,  printed  and  sold  by  Wil- 
liam Bradford,  at  the  sign  of  the  Bible, 
in  New  York,  1698,  noticed,  365; 
order  of  the  Queen  that  the  estates  of, 
and  Jacob  Milbourne,  be  restored  to 
their  families  ;  noted,  365 ;  case  of, 
considered  in  the  pamphlet,  "Loyalty 
Vindicated,"  &c.,  367,  368  ;  the  "duty 
on  his  wines  a  cause  of  the  rebellion, 
372  ;  his  declaration  for  the  Prince  of 


INDEX. 


Orange,  37*7;  the  question  of  the 
application  of  taxes  considered,  378 ; 
his  treatment  of  Bayard,  Nichols  and 
Cortlandt,  378,  379  ;  how  he  supplied 
the  garrison  at  New  York,  381  ;  farther 
account  of  the  disturbances  at  New 
York,  under,  385  ;  writ  of  possession 
granted  to  the  wife  of,  390 ;  account 
of  a  judge  of,  393  ;  the  Bill  for  recon- 
ciling parties  in  the  Revolution  in 
New  York,  394;  answer  of  the  Church 
Wardens  of  the  Dutch  Church  in  New 
York,  concerning  the  reburial  of 
Leisier  and  Milborne,  397  ;  see  Classis 
of  Amsterdam,  400,  4u2 ;  another 
account  of  the  case  of,  405  ;  the  attain- 
der of,  considered,  see  petition  of  the 
New  York  House  of  Representatives 
to  Lord  Bellomont,  415,  416  ;  the  de- 
position of  Abraham  Gouvemeur  in 
reference  to  the  accounts  of,  416; 
noticed,  75,  141,  273,  274,  277,  311, 
411,  414. 

Leisier,  Jacob,  the  younger,  order  in 
Council  upon  the  petition  of,  331  ; 
petition  to  the  Lords  of  Trade  and 
Plantation,  332 ;  petition  to  the  King  to 
reverse  the  attainders,  336  ;  proceed- 
ings of  the  Privy  Council  on  the  peti- 
tion of,  337 ;  petition  to  the  House 
of  Lords,  339 ;  informations  taken  by 
the  Committee  of  the  House  of  Com- 
mons before  the  passing  of  the  bill  for 
the  removal  of  Jacob  Leisler's  attain- 
der, 348  ;  answer  to  the  reasons  against 
his  bill  of  attainder,  357 ;  state  of  the 
case  of,  as  proved  at  New  York,  359  ; 
noticed,  388. 

Le  Tort ,  letter  from,  242. 

Letter,  a,  from  a  Gentleman  of  the  City 
of  New  York  to  another,  concerning 
the  troubles  which  happened  in  that 
Province  in  the  time  of  the  late  happy 
Revolution,  etc.,  365. 

Letters  of  Marque,  see  Robert  Livingston, 
267 ;  noticed,  286. 

Limerick,  Ireland,  the  capitulation  of, 
11,  94. 

Livingston,  Robert,  see  the  invasion  of 
Canada,  269  ;  a  "  good  solicitor  "  for 
himself,  204 ;  German  insurrection 
near  his  house,  198  ;  noticed,  267. 

Liquor,  duties  levied  on,  in  Maryland, 
100. 

Lloyd,  Thomas,  President  of  Pennsyl- 
vania, letter  to  Gov.  Fletcher,  166. 

Lockhart,  George,  seized  at  Pemaquid, 
266. 

Locke,  John,  proposes  a  military  despot- 


ism in  the  colonies,  162 ;  noticed, 
175. 
Lodwick,  Charles,  Capt.,  mutiny  of  the 
men  of,  at  New  York,  269 ;  see  Don- 
gan's  return  to  New  York,  285  ;  see 
the  seizure  of  the  fort  at  New  York, 

288,  289 ;  By-Laws  of  his  company 
of  soldiers,  293  ;  deposition  of,  con- 
cerning Gov.  Nicholson,  295 ;  noticed, 

289,  273,  274,  277,  324. 

Long  Island,  Leisier  orders  the  reduction 
of  forces  on,  302  ;  a  declaration  of  the 
freeholders  and  inhabitants  of,  and 
parts  adjacent,  304;  see  New  York, 
240,  259. 

Louis  the  Fourteenth,  his  admonitions  to 
James  the  Second,  20  ;  determines 
upon  the  conquest  of  New  York,  68 ; 
noticed,  41. 

Lovelace,  Francis,  Col.,  Gov.,  account  of 
his  fight  with  the  Esopus  Indians,  184. 

Lovelace,  John,  Lord,  death  of,  196. 

Loyalty  Vindicated,  being  an  answer  to 
a  late  false,  seditious,  and  scandalous 
pamphlet,  entitled  "  A  Letter  from  a 
Gent.,"  etc.,  365. 

Ludwell,  Phihp,  agent  of  the  Burgesses  of 
Virginia,  noticed,  43  ;  his  failure  to 
convict  Gov.  Howard,  44 ;  appointed 
governor  of  Carolina,  80,  Si,  82  ;  his 
administration,  82. 

Luersen,  Carsten,'  noticed,  345. 

Lying,  its  consequences,  372. 

Macclesfield, ,  member  Privy  Coun- 
cil of  William  and  Mary,  noticed,  37. 

Madockawando,  the  Indian  chief,  arrives 
in  Boston  to  mediate  a  peace,  51. 

Maine,  Indian  wars  in.  111. 

Manning,  John,  Capt.,  the  case  of,  in  the 
surrender  of  New  York  to  the  Dutch, 
184. 

Manufactures,  the  advancement  of,  in 
Virginia,  46. 

Marbletown,  New  York,  some  account 
of,  185. 

March,  John,  the  captor  of  Bomazeen, 
119. 

Markham,  William,  appointed  Lt.  Gov. 
of  Pennsylvania,  151 ;  the  character 
of,  153;  his  government  of  Penn.,  154. 

Marlborough,  Duke  of,  account  of  his 
command  in  Holland,  193  ;  see  Ant- 
werp, 195,  196. 

Maryland,  conduct  of,  on  the  accession 
of  William  and  Mary  to  the  throne  of 
England,  14  ;  revolution  in,  15  ;  in- 
surrections of  July,  1689,  16  ;  accepts 
the  government  of  Wilham,  19;  the 


438 


INDEX. 


peaceful  condition  of,  in  1692,  75  ; 
Copley  appointed  governor  of,  77  ;  the 
government  of,  seized  by  William,  99  ; 
Nicholson  appointed  governor  of,  104  ; 
his  prudent  administration,  105  ;  an 
act  for  the  encouragement  of  learning 
passed  the  Assembly  of,  106  ;  the 
number  of  souls  in,  in  17uO,  164. 

Massachusetts,  "  noted  for  turbulence," 
20;  action  of,  on  the  accession  of 
William  and  Mary  to  the  throne  of 
England,  21,  22;  address  of  the  Con- 
vention to  William,  20th  May,  1689,  25 ; 
Simon  Bradstreet  declared  governor 
of,  25  ;  "  pious  trick  "  of  the  Governor 
and  Council  of,  27  ;  hand  in  hand 
with  Ireland  in  1689,  31 ;  grant  of  the 
Province  Charter,  64  ;  refuses  to  aid 
New  York  against  the  French,  73  ; 
deplorable  condition  of,  in  1692,  109 ; 
witchcraft  in,  110  ;  criminal  law  of, 
derived  from  the  law  of  Moses,  113; 
luduui  devastations  in,  119  ;  Governor 
Burnet's  administration  in,  218. 

Massachusetts  Bay,  the  incorporation  of, 
64. 

Mason,  Wm.,  Capt.,  noticed,  321,  327. 

Mather,  Increase,  looks  to  the  "  good  of 
New  England,"  in  1688,  20;  his  in- 
trigues in  1689,  22  ;  the  "  Domine  of 
Boston,"  298  ;  noticed,  90,  91. 

Mattapany-House,  Maryland,  capture  of 
the  garrison  at,  17. 

Mauritz,  Jacob,  petition  of,  to  the  King, 
340 ;  memorandum  for  an  affidavit  of, 
342 ;  noticed,  322,  327,  328,  331. 

Mantet,  Lieut,  (see  Frontenac),  130. 

McGiegorie,  Patrick,  Major,  seized  at 
Peniaquid,  266. 

McPherson,  James,  his  secret  History  of 
England,  noticed,  38. 

Meadows,  Philip,  noticed,  175. 

Merritt,  William,  (see  disturbances  in 
New  York),  286;  noticed,  272,  274, 
275,  276. 

Meyer,  Andries,  noticed,  277. 

Meyer,  John,  noticed,  277. 

Meyer,  Nich.  D.,  Major,  noticed,  273,  274. 

Milbourne,  Jacob,  secretary  to  Leisler, 
_  noticed,  71,72;  trial  of,  323  ;  petition 
of  the  wife  of,  to  the  Queen,  335  ; 
petition  to  the  King  to  reverse  the  at- 
tainders, 336  ;  order  of  the  Queen 
that  the  estates  of,  and  Jacob  Leisler 
be  restored  to  their  families,  365 ; 
answer  of  the  church  wardens  of  the 
Dutch  church  of  New  York,  concern- 
ing the  reburial  of  Leisler  and,  397  ; 
noticed,  299,  315,  316,  321,  323,  332, 


339,  341,  351,  354,  358,  364,  385,411, 
414,  416. 

Mill,  Ant.  D.,  noticed,  273,  274,  275  (see 
Dmill). 

MinvieUe,  Gabriel,  Capt.,  mutiny  of  the 
men  of,  at  New  York,  269 ;  noticed, 
202,  273,  274,  277,  289. 

Miracles  of  Christ,  considered,  215. 

Missilimackinac,  operations  of  the  French 
around,  145. 

Mohawk  Indians,  retaliate  for  the  sacking 
and  massacre  at  Schenectady,  70 ;  gal- 
lantry of,  at  La  Prairie,  74  ;  (see 
Schenectady,  131). 

Monmouth,  the  Duke  of,  298. 

Montague,  Chas.,  noticed,  332. 

Montgomerie,  John,  Col.,  appointed  gov- 
ernor of  New  York,  217  ;  his  arrival  at 
New  York,  219  ;  rehance  of,  on  Mr. 
Clark,  220 ;  his  habits  of  life,  220 ;  affair 
of  the  salaries  of  the  state  officials,  221, 
222 ;  his  detention  at  Barbadoes,  226. 

Montour,  Madame,  Gov.  Hunter's  inter- 
preter, account  of,  200. 

Moore,  Samuel,  Capt.,  Ingoldesby's  war- 
rant to,  200 ;  (see  Long  Island),  305. 

More,  ,  of  Carolina,  excepted  from 

pardon,  84. 

Morris,  Lewis,  Chief  Justice,  De  Lancey's 
enmity  to,  220,  221,  210;  speech  of 
his  eldest  son,  in  council,  222. 

Morris,  Frederick,  speech  in  the  council 
and  his  removal,  223. 

Mulford,  Samuel,  Justice  of  the  Peace  in 
New  York,  noticed,  293. 

Mutual  Union  for  tl^e  defence  of  the  Col- 
onies, 161,  162. 

Nanfan,  John,  Lt.  Gov.,  noticed.  202. 

NaturaUzation,  (see  account  of  Gov.  Bur- 
net's refusal  to  qualify  De  Lancey), 
210,211. 

Nariows,  the,  the  grant  for  fortifying 
the,  204. 

Neal,  Daniel,  his  History  of  New  England 
quoted,  165. 

Negroes  in  Virginia  in  1697,  163. 

Nelson,  John,  seizes  Gov.  Andros,  244. 

New  England,  the  action  of,  on  the  acces- 
sion of  William  and  Mary  to  the  throne 
of  England,  20 ;  an  Indian  war  begins 
in  1688,  50;  distress  of,  after  the 
attack  on  Quebec,  58 ;  solicits  from 
Parliament,  a  new  charter,  61 ;  fishing 
on  the  coasts  of,  65 ;  Sir  WilHani 
Phips  appointed  governor  of,  66  ;  lists 
of  the  mihtia  in,  in  1688,  87  ;  the 
criminal  law  of,  altered,  113  ;  the 
Church  in,  114  ;  the  distresses  of,  126 . 


INDEX. 


439 


deliberations  of  the  Ministers  of  Eng- 
land in  reference  tiiereto,  126,  127; 
the  natural  increase  of  people  in,  con- 
sidered, 187  ;  the  people  of,  "  zealous 
republicans,  bigoted  independents," 
189  ;  witchcraft  in,  189 ;  the  Revolu- 
of  1689  in,  190  ;  the  people  of, 
"  troublesome,"  218  ;  quarrel  with  their 
governors,  218. 

New  Hampshire,  action  of,  in  the  Revolu- 
tion in  New  England,  1688,  28  ;  In- 
dian war  in,  52  •,  Sir  William  Phips 
appointed  Governor  of,  67;  Indian 
depredations  in,  119;  account  of  the 
government  of,  127 ;  the  government 
of,  seized,  128. 

New  Haven  County,  Conn.,  letter  from 
the  authorities  of  New  York  to  the 
people  of,  on  the  French  invasion,  263. 

New  Jersey,  the  Governor  of,  imprisoned 
by  Sir  Edmund  Andros,  188;  see  the 
Jerseys,  30. 

New  Netherland,  pretensions  of  the 
Dutch  to,  182, 

New  Plymouth,  Mass.,  action  of,  in  the 
Revolution  in  New  England,  1689,  28. 

Newton,  Sir  Isaac,  his  principles  for  the 
study  of  Scripture  prophecy,  214. 

New  York,  the  Revolution  of  1689,  at 
29 ;  Louis  Fourteenth  determined  on 
the  conquest  of,  68  ;  the  conduct  of, 
after  the  massacre  at  Schenectady,  70  ; 
Major  Ingoldesby  assumes  the  gover- 
norship of,  73 ;  assisted  with  funds 
from  Virginia,  97 ;  aided  by  Mary- 
land, 107;  jealousy  of,  126;  invaded 
from  Canada,  129,  130;  administra- 
tion of  Fletcher  in,  132,  133;  the 
unhappy  condition  of,  in  1692,  128, 
133  ;  the  establishment  of  a  Protestant 
ministry  in,  136;  prosperity  of  the 
city  of,  137;  continued  war  on  the 
frontier  of,  149 ;  increase  of  the  city 
of,  150;  Smith's  History  of,  181 ;  laws 
of  trade  of,  183;  surrender  of  the 
government  of,  by  the  Dutch  States 
General,  183;  the  manner  of  its  re- 
ception by  the  Dutch  in  1673,  184  ; 
law  of  divorce  in,  187  ;  Col.  Dongan's 
administration  in,  191 ;  Acts  of  the  As- 
sembly under  Dongan's  administration, 
191 ;  English  Government  sends  Ger- 
mans to,  to  make  pitch  and  tar,  197  ; 
the  Dutch  and  English  Independents  of, 
201 ;  operations  of  the  Church  clergy 
in,  201 ;  Leisler's  operations  in,  203 ; 
Assembly  of,  authorizes  the  issue  of 
bills,  203 ;  amounts  paid  the  officers 
of   the    government    of,    203 ;  high- 


handed measures  of  the  Assembly  of, 
204  ;  the  first  political  "  ring"  in,  204 ; 
character  of  Assemblies  in,  205  ;  rights 
of  foreigners  in,  210  ;  resolves  of  the 
Assembly  of,  against  the  Court  of 
Chancery,  2il  ;  royal  instructions  to 
the  governors  of,  219 ;  Col.  Mont- 
gomerie  appointed  Governor  of,  219; 
the  De  Lancey  party  in  the  ascen- 
dant in,  220 ;  dispute  about  the  sala- 
ries of  officials  in  the  State  of,  221 ; 
agreement  for  a  partition  line  between 
Connecticut  and,  223  ;  method  of  ob- 
taining lands  in  the  Province  of,  in 
1737,  231 ;  Minutes  of  the  Council 
at,  from  March  1st  to  June  11th,  168^, 
241 ;  Aldermen  and  Council  of,  con- 
vened to  consider  the  arrest  of  Gov. 
Andros,  244,  245 ;  action  of  the  au- 
thorities of,  in  the  Revolution  at  Bos- 
ton, 247,  248  ;  letter  from  the  Council 
of,  to  General  Winthrop  and  others, 
April  27,  1689,  248;  letter  from  the 
Lieut.  Gov.  and  Council  of,  to  Gov. 
Andros,  May  1,  1689,  250  ;  letter 
from  the  same  to  Simon  Bradstreet 
and  Wayt  Winthrop,  251  ;  letters 
from  the  Lt.  Gov.  and  Council  of,  to 
Major  Howell,  in  reference  to  dis- 
turbances in  Suflblk  Co.,  N.  Y.,  252, 
253  ;  letter  from  the  same  to  the  au- 
thorities of  Suffolk  Co.,  N.  Y.,  256 ;  Lt. 
Gov.  and  Council  of,  examine  into  the 
accounts  of  Matthew  Plowman,  258; 
letter  from  the  Lt.  Gov.  and  Council 
of,  to  the  authorities  in  England,  259 ; 
letter  from  the  same  to  the  people  of 
Fairfield,  New  Haven,  and  Hartford 
Counties,  Conn.,  263;  Examination  of 
George  Wedderborne,  before  the  Lt. 
Gov.  and  Council  of,  264 ;  action  of  the 
Lt.  Gov.  and  Council  on  the  instructions 
of  Gov.  Andros,  265  ;  action  of  the  Lt. 
Gov.  and  Council  of,  on  the  seizures  at 
Pemaquid,  266 ;  the  Lt.  Gov.  and 
Council  of,  decline  to  give  letters  of 
marque  to  the  young  men  of  Albany, 
who  desire  to  invade  Canada,  267 ;  the 
same  allow  one  of  the  Council  to  with- 
draw to  New  Jersey,  267 ;  the  militia 
of  the  city  of,  refuse  to  obey  the  orders 
of  the  Lieut.  Gov.,  268,  269 ;  Leisler 
orders  the  alarm  to  be  given  in  the  city 
of,  268 ;  disturbance  in  the  city  of, 
May  4,  1689,  269,  270 ;  news  of  the 
proclamation  of  William  and  Mary,  at 
New  York,  269 ;  the  Council  of,  advise 
the  departure  of  the  Lieut.  Gov.  from 
the  country,  270 ;    the  same  order  the 


440 


INDEX. 


sale  of  the  King's  property,  271 ;  pro- 
ceediugs  of  the  Council,  magistrates 
and  officers  of,  from  April  27  to  June 
6,  1689,  272  ;  fortification  of  the  city 
of,  considered,  273,  274^  277,  278, 
282 ;  proceedings  of  the  Council,  magis- 
trates, and  officers  of,  for  the  defence 
of  the  city,  279,  280  ;  the  Council  of, 
empower  a  part  of  their  number  to  act, 
283  ;  jealousies  and  disturbances  in  the 
city  of,  284-286 ;  action  of  the  Coun- 
cil in  reference  to  gunpowder  in  the 
city  of,  287  ;  fort  in  the  city  of,  taken 
possession  of  by  the  inhabitants,  288  ; 
action  of  the  Coimcil  of,  288  ;  fortifi- 
cation of  the  city  of,  ordered,  253,  257; 
(see  Sloughter),  307,  308  ;  George  Dol- 
stone's  affidavit  in  reference  to  affairs 
in,  315  ;  depositions  of  citizens  of  the 
city  of,  relative  to  the  disturbance  m 
June,  1689,  345 ;  resolves  of  the  House 
of  Representatives  of,  April  17,  1691, 
noticed,  365 ;  a  letter  from  a  gentleman 
of  the  city  of,  to  another,  concerning 
the  troubles  which  happened  in  that 
province  in  the  time  of  the  late  happy 
revolution,  365 ;  remarks  on  three 
Dutch  gentlemen  of,  37Q ;  the  fortify- 
ing of,  considered,  370 ;  revolution  in, 
further  considered,  371  ;  rejoicings  in, 
on  the  accession  of  William  and  Mary 
to  the  throne  of  England,  373;  docu- 
mentary history  of,  quoted  (see  Leis- 

ler), ;  the   tumult  at   the   custom 

house  in,  375  ;  the  damage  done  to  the 
province  of,  by  Leisler,  381  ;  number 
killed  in  the  disturbances  at,  384 ;  a 
bill  for  reconciling  parties  in  the 
revolution  in,  394 ;  House  of  Repre- 
sentatives of,  pass  the  bill  for  recon- 
ciling parties  in  the  revolution  in, 
396 ;  answer  of  the  church  wardens  of 
the  Dutch  Church,  concerning  the  re- 
burial  of  Leisler  and  Milborne  in  their 
church,  397-411 ;  account  of  the  revo- 
lution in,  in  a  letter  from  the  members 
of  the  Dutch  Church  to  the  Classis  of 
Amsterdam,  398-412 ;  petition  and 
remonstrance  of  the  House  of  Repre- 
sentatives of,  to  Lord  Bellomont,  412. 

NichoUs,  J.,  town  clerk  of  New  York, 
noticed,  290. 

Nicholson,  Francis,  Lt.  Gov.  N.  Y.,  sends 
tidings  of  the  revolution  in  Boston,  to 
England,  27,  28,  29  ;  appointed  Lieut. 
Gov.  of  Virginia,  44  ;  his  administra- 
tion, 45,  46 ;  appointed  governor  of 
Maryland,  104 ;  appointed  governor  of 
Virginia,  109 ;  letter  in   reference  to- 


the  State  of  Maryland,  165  ;  desires  the 
governorship  of  New  York,  and  ife  sup- 
ported by  the  church  and  the  clergy, 
201 ;  his  character,  "  born  drunk," 
201 ;  sends  relief  to  a  ship  in  distress 
near  Barnegat,  243  ;  advised  to  leave 
the  country  by  the  Council  of  N.  Y. 
270 ;  Henry  Cuyler's  deposition  con- 
cerning Governor,  292  ;  Charles  Lode- 
wick's  deposition  concerning,  295 ;  let- 
ter of  the  King  to,  dated  July  30,  1689, 
noticed,  365  ;  (see  Classis  of  Amster- 
dam), 400;  noticed,  90,  169,189,241, 
243,  245,  291,  300,  324,  307,  349,  350, 
353,  359,  360,  362,  363,  368. 

NicoUs,  William,  imprisoned  by  Leisler, 
376,  379,  383. 

Non-resistance,  the  doctrine  of,  380. 

North  America,  first  discovered  by  Eng- 
hshmen,  182  ;  character  of  assemblies 
in,  205. 

North  Carolina,  dispute  with  Virginia  con- 
cerning the  boundary  of,  46  ;  condition 
of,  in  1689,  80;  (see  Carolinas),  30. 

Nottingham,  Earl  of,  noticed,  90,  299. 

Nottingham,  Broadhead,  and  Garton,  set- 
tlers at  Marbletown,  185. 

Nucella,  Johannes  Petrus,  Dominie,  no- 
ticed, 410,  411. 

Oakes,  Thomas,  appointed  agent  for  New 
England,  61 ;  representative  in  Eng- 
land, 88. 

O'Callaghan,  E.  B.  quoted.  365. 

Olferts,  Suert,  noticed,  277. 

Onondaga,  firmness  of  the  Indian  Coun- 
cil at,  144. 

Onoudagas,  bravery  of,  in  opposing  Fron- 
tenac,  147. 

Ontario,  Lake,  operations  of  the  French 
on  the,  145. 

Ostley,  Ad.,  noticed,  323,  324. 

Ottowa,  the  traders  of,  desire  letters-of- 
marque  to  war  with  the  French,  286. 

Oxford,  Lord  Justice,  noticed,  166. 

Page,  ,  Col.,  seizes    Gov.  Andros, 

244. 
Palmer,  Graham,  seized  at    Boston  with 

Gov.  Andros,  244. 
Panton, ,  Capt.,  of  Westchester  Co., 

N.  Y.,  noticed,  247. 
Papacy,  noticed,  306. 
Papists,  (see  circular  letter  of  the  Prince 

of  Orange  to  the  American  Colonies), 

12,  36;    (see   Leisler),  376;    to  rule 

New  York,  367  ;  noticed,  296. 
Paper-money,    first    issued    within    the 

British  Empire,  59,  89. 


INDEX. 


441 


Partridge,  William,  appointed  deputy- 
governor  of  New  Hampshire,  128. 

Passive  obedience,  noticed,  (see  Leisler), 
380. 

Pawling,  Henry,  settles  at  Marbletown, 
185. 

Pemaquid,  the  capture  of  the  garrison  at, 
52,  123  ;  seizures  at,  266. 

Penn,  William,  appearance  before  the 
Committee  of  Plantations,  Feb.  1689, 
14 ;  prevents  a  revolution  in  Penn- 
eylvauia,  19,  38 ;  the  intrigues  of, 
loO ;  removal  of,  from  the  governor- 
ship of  Pennsylvania,  154 ;  restored 
to  the  government  of  Pennsylvania, 
155,  156  ;  recommends  a  democracy 
in  the  colonies,  162  ;  copy  of  his  letter 
to  Governor  Fletcher,  168  ;  letter  to 
persons  iu  Philadelphia,  169;  noticed, 
39,  175. 

Pennsylvania,  occurrences  in,  at  the  ac- 
cession of  William  and  Mary,  15  ;  con- 
tinues its  administration  in  the  name 
of  James  the  Second,  19,  38 ;  condi- 
tion of,  in  1689,  75  ;  government  of, 
seized  into  the  liing's  hands,  150,  153  ; 
the  growth  and  progress  of,  157  ;  Irish 
emigrants  to,  227;  Scotch  emigrants 
to,  228. 

Pepys,  Samuel,  noticed,  39. 

Perry,  John,  post-rider,  noticed,  242. 

Personal  Liberty  in  New  England,  113. 

Phillipse,  Frederick,  Major,  noticed,  241, 
243,  245,  370. 

Phillipse,  Adolph,  persuades  Peter  Schuy- 
ler to  let  him  keep  the  king's  seal,  206. 

Philipse, ,  Mr.,  noticed,  363. 

Phillipse,  and  Codringtone,  the  case  of, 
212. 

Phips,  Sir  William,  his  intrigue  at  the 
time  of  the  accession  of  William  and 
Mary,  22  ;  returns  from  England, 
26 ;  commands  the  expedition  against 
Acadie,  53  ;  sails  for  England,  59,  88  ; 
his  course  in  England,  63  ;  commands 
the  expedition  against  Quebec,  55  ; 
appointed  governor  of  Massachusetts 
Bay,  66 ;  arrives  at  Boston,  May,  1692, 
109  ;  his  Witchcraft  Commission,  110; 
his  domestic  regulations  in  Mass.,  112; 
urges  the  destruction  of  French  ships 
at  Newfoundland,  115;  the  insolence 
of,  his  disputes,  117;  his  recall,  118; 
his  arrival  in  England,  subsequent  ac- 
tions, and  death,  120;  military  com- 
missions of,  revoked,  133  ;  "an  incen- 
diary," 140  ;  noticed,  57,  141. 

Phips,  Consiantine,  frames  a  bill  to  re- 
verse the  attainder  of  Leisler,  141. 


Pierepoint,  Elizabeth,  noticed,  290. 

Pinhorn,  William,  Judge,  noticed,  398. 

Pitch  and  Tar,  manufacture  of,  iu  New 
York,  197. 

Plowman,  Matthew,  noticed,  24?  ;  order- 
ed to  bring  the  money  of  the  Colony 
into  Fort  James,  243  ;  letter  to  the 
Marquis  of  Halifax,  of  June  7  and 
August  14,  1689,  290;  noticed,  244, 
255,  258,  368,  370. 

Polexten,  John,  noticed,  175. 

Popery,  at  New  York  and  Albany,  188 ; 
see  Olassis  of  Amsterdam,  398  ;  no- 
ticed, 366,  380,  382. 

Port  Royal,  Nova  Scotia,  an  expedition 
against,  53,  55 ;  Phips'  expedition  to, 
88. 

Povey,  John,  noticed,  351. 

Prince  of  Orange,  accession  of,  to  the 
throne  of  England,  6  ;  circular  letters 
to  tlie  American  Colonies,  12,  36  ;  see 
Orange,  241,  369  ;  see  Classis  of  Am- 
sterdam, 399. 

Privy  Council  of  England,  orders  of  the, 
to  the  governors  of  the  American  Co- 
lonies in  1689,  13,  36,  37. 

Provost,  Johannes,  Leisler's  warrant  and 
instructions  to,  Aug.  12,  1689,  296, 
296  ;-  petition  to  the  King,  340. 

Protestantism  in  America  in  1689,  17  ; 
in  Maryland,  103. 

Protestants,  see  case  of  the  forfeiture  of 
Lord  Baltimore's  charter,  77  ;  who 
were  the  ?  368  ;  see  Leisler,  376,  382 ; 
see  Classis  of  Amsterdam,  398. 

Pynchon,  John,  Col.,  see  Revolution  in 
Boston,  248. 

Quakers,  action  of  the,  in  the  Revolution 
of  1689,  30,  38  ;  "  excellent  negotia- 
tors," 39  ;  send  money  to  Gov.  Fletch- 
er for  the  Indians,  148. 

Quebec,  Sir  William  Phips'  expedition 
against,  55,  88. 

Queen  Anne,  change  in  the  ministry 
of,  200. 

Queen's  County,  New  York,  uproar  in, 
254  ;  see  Andros,  247,  259  ;  action  of 
the  Council  of  New  York  in  reference 
to  the  disturbances  in,  280. 

Ramillies,  reason  for  the  victory  at,  194. 
Randolph,  Edward,  Surveyor  General  of 

Customs,  in  the  Colonies,  noticed,  38 ; 

the  removal  of,  from  the  Custom  house 

at  Boston,    117  ;    seized    with    Gov. 

Andros  at  Boston,  244. 
Religion,  see  Popery  and  Protestantism, 

see  Episcopal ;  in  New  York,  136. 


442 


INDEX. 


Renssalaer,  Nicholas,  "a  Dutch  clergy- 
man," the  case  of,  187 ;  imprisoned 
for  "  dubious  words,"  188. 

Revolution  in  Boston,  some  account  of 
the,  248. 

Rhode  Island,  action  of,  in  the  Revolu- 
tion in  New  England,  1688,  28  ;  Sir 
William  Phips  appointed  governor  of, 
67  ;  refuses  to  aid  New  York  against 
the  French,  73  ;  sets  up  a  new  gov- 
ernment, 259. 

Richards,  Paulus,  noticed,  272,  274,  275, 
276. 

Richmond  County,  N.  Y.,  meeting  of  the 
mhabitants  of,  to  consider  the  Revolu- 
tion in  Boston,  248. 

Ridgefield,  Conn.,  people  of,  dispute  the 
boundary  line  between  New  York  and 
Connecticut,  224. 

Riemer,  Isaac  D.,  noticed,  277 ;  see  De 
Riemer. 

Riggs,  Ensign,  conveys  the  news  of  the 
Revolution  at  Boston  to  England,  27  ; 
arrival  of,  from  England,  299,  325, 
363,  378. 

Ringo,  Alburtus,  noticed,  845. 

Robinson,  Robert,  at  the  trial  of  Leisler, 
323. 

Rochester,  Lord,  noticed,  290. 

Rombouts,  Francis,  noticed,  272,  274, 
275,  276, 

Romney,  Lord  Justice,  noticed,  166. 

Roome,  Pieter  Willemse,  noticed,  346. 

Rou,  Louis,  Reverend  Mr.,  the  case  of, 
and  the  French  Congregation,  207 ; 
his  character  noticed,  209 ;  his  treatise 
on  chess,  209. 

Russell,  Bartholomew,  noticed,  368,  370, 
371. 

Rutsen,  Jacob,  Lieut.,  noticed,  296. 

Sawyer,  ,  Attorney  General,  de- 
nounces Gov.  Andros,  22. 

Schenectady,  N.  Y.,  surprised  by  Hervile 
with  his  Canadians,  69  ;  account  of  the 
surprise  of,  403  ;  the  surprise  of,  131. 

Schuyler,  Brandt  (see  Dutch  Church), 
398. 

Schuyler,  Peter,  Col.,  his  operations  with 
the  Five  Nations,  69 ;  surprises  La 
Prairie,  and  returns  to  Albany,  74 ;  his 
connection  with  the  disaster  at  Sche- 
nectady, 131 ;  character  of,  portrayed, 
199  ;  imposes  "  upon  the  Queen  and 
the  British  Nation,"  with  spurious 
Indiiin  Sachems,  200 ;  acts  as  governor 
of  New  York,  206  ;  how  lie  construed 
"  perquisites,"  206  ;  Governor  Burnet's 
construction  of  "  perquisites,"*  206. 


Scotch  Historians  and  Scotch  marriage 
laws,  191. 

Scotland,  the  conduct  of,  on  the  acces- 
sion of  William  and  Mary  to  the  throne 
of  England,  8 ;  illicit  trade  between 
Virginia  and,  97  ;  emigrants  from,  to 
Pennsylvania,  228,  231,  233. 

Selyns,  Henricus,  Dominie,  imprudence 
of,  402,  403,  404,  407,  408,  409,  410, 
411. 

Shanks,  Matthew,  Lieut.,  noticed,  318. 

Short, ,  Capt.,  of  the  Nonsuch,  the 

case  of,  118. 

Shrewsbury,  Earl  of,  member  Privy 
Council  of  William  and  Mary,  noticed, 
37 ;  Gov.  Bradstreet's  letter  to,  in  re- 
ference to  the  Port  Royal  expedition, 
88  ;  list  of  writings  delivered  into  the 
hands  of,  297. 

Shrimpton,  Samuel,  Col.,  seizes  Gov. 
Andros,  244. 

Simmes, ,    Mr.,    brother-in-law    of 

Capt.  Richard  IngoJdsby,  318. 

Sinclair,  Robert,  noticed,  328,  345. 

Slavery,  in  Virginia,  46  ;  noticed,  366. 

Sloughter,  Henry,  Col.,  named  as  gov- 
ernor of  New  York,  68 ;  arrival  of,  at 
New  York,  71  ;  his  administration,  71, 
91;  death  of,  73;  commissioned  gov- 
ernor of  New  York,  307 ;  at  Ber- 
muda, 809 ;  warrant  to  Ingoldsby 
to  take  possession  of  the  fort  at 
New  York,  310  ;  see  George  Dolstone, 
317;  removes  the  cannon  from  the 
walls  of  New  York,  330 ;  action  of 
the  New  York  Assembly  in  reference 
to,  387;  noticed,  142,  318,320,821, 
324,  829,  330,  331,  339,  841,  351, 
353,  355,  860,  361,  362,  3(J4,  378, 
382,  384,  403,  406,  407,  417. 

Smith,  Enghsh,  post-rider,  noticed,  242. 

Smith,  Thomas,  appointed  governor  of 
CaroUna,  85  ;  his  advice  to  the  Pro- 
prietaries, 85. 

Smith,  William,  Cadwallader  Colden'a 
letters  on  his  history  of  New  York, 
181,  187,  192,  206,  214,  219,  226, 
230 ;  quotation  from  the  preface  to  his 
history,  182;  his  version  of  the  case 
of  Newenhytt,  considered,  188. 

Smith,  William,  an  allowance  made  to, 
by  Leisler's  Assembly,  202. 

Smith,  ,   Major,  see  Revolution  in 

Boston,  249. 

Smith,  William,  noticed,  264,  265 ;  de- 
clares his  willingness  to  serve  Gov. 
Andros,  266. 

Somers,  Lord,  see  Revolution  in  New 
England,  28  ;  noticed,  61,  64,  91,  166. 


INDEX. 


443 


Sophia,  Princess  of  England,  her  present 
to  Bishop  Burnet,  217. 

Sothel,  Seth,  Gov.  of  Carolina,  suspended 
from  office,  80. 

South  Carolina,  (see  Carolinas),  30; 
convulsions  and  anarchy  in,  80. 

Spencer,  Nicholas,  Secretary  of  Virsinia, 
letter  to  the  Lords  of  the  Committee 
of  Plantations,  37. 

St.  Albans,  Lord,  grants  to,  noticed,  47. 

St.  John's,  N.  B.,  the  attack  on,  125. 

Starkey,  Richard,  noticed,  322,  327. 

States  General,  the  Dutch,  cautious  pro- 
ceeding of  the,  in  reference  to  the  set- 
tlement on  Hudson's  River,  183. 

Stol,  Joost,  Ensign,  statement  of,  and 
list  of  papers  delivered  into  the  hands 
of,  and  sent  to  England,  297- 

Stoughton,  WilUam,  Lt.  Gov.  of  Mass., 
see  Witchcraft,  110;  ordered  to  as- 
sume the  government  of  Mass.,  1 1 8  ;  his 
prudent  administration,  119;  "more 
of  a  scholar  than  a  soldier,"  121 ;  see 
New  Hampshire,  128. 

Suffolk  Co.,  N.  Y.,  disturbances  in,  in 
May,  1689,  252,,  253,  256,  259. 

Sunderland,  Lord,  his  counsels  to  James 
the  Second,  20 ;  see  Circular  Letter 
of  James  the  Second  to  the  American 
Colonies,  33. 

Sunderland,  the  Countess  of,  noticed,  90. 

Tankerville, ,  noticed,  175. 

T;issemaker,  Dominie,  murder  of,  403. 

"  Tatler,"  the.  Governor  Hunter's  contri- 
butions to,  192. 

Teers,  Claes,  appointed  Ensign  of  the 
Bergen  Mihtia,  247. 

Teller,  Jacob,  affidavit  of,  relative  to  af- 
fairs in  New  York,  Sept.,  1690,  321  ; 
noticed  327. 

Teschemacher,  Dominie,  murder  of,  403. 

Teysack,  John,  noticed,  241. 

Thomas,  John,  petition  to  the  King,  340. 

Thomas,  Jurraien,  Capt.,  appointed  Lt. 
of  the  Bergen  Militia,  247. 

Thomason,  Gabrielle,  noticed,  243,  244. 

Tiebout,  Johannes,  noticed,  346. 

Tillotson,  Archbishop,  wished  the  Church 
could  get  fairly  rid  of  the  Athanasian 
Creed,  215. 

Tobacco,  tax  on,  under  the  statute  of 
Charles  Second,  87. 

Toleration,  see  CoUiton  County,  Caro- 
lina, 84. 

Townley,  Richard,  Colonel,  of  East  Jer- 
sey, noticed,  247. 

Treat, ,  Col.,  see  Revolution  in  Bos- 
ton, 248. 


Treby,  Sir  George,  Attorney  General,  see 
Revolution  in  New  England,  28  ;  action 
of,  in  reference  to  the  forfeiture  of 
Lord  Baltimore's  charter,  76,  77,  78, 
93 ;  noticed,  91. 

Trevor,  Sir  Thomas,  Attorney  General, 
noticed,  40,  101,  165 ;  opinion  on  the 
Charter  of  Penn,  1 69. 

Trifry,   ,    Capt.    seized    with    Gov. 

Andros  at  Boston,  244. 

Trumbull,  Sir  William,  Secretary  of 
State,  noticed,  167. 

Tunese,  Jan,  noticed,  346. 

Turck,  Paulus,  jr.,  noticed,  346. 

Tyrconnel,  Lord  Lieutenant  of  Ireland, 
his  conduct  at  the  accession  of  William 
and  Mary  to  the  Enghsh  throne,  9, 35  ; 
a  change  in  his  conduct,  10  ;  note  in 
reference  to  the  case  of,  35. 

Ulster,  N.  Y.,  action  of  the  people  of, 
on  the  seizure  of  Gov.  Andros,  249 ; 
Leisler's  order  in  reference  to  persons 
from,  303. 

Union  in  the  Northern  American  Colo- 
nies, 149. 

Usher,  John,  see  New  Hampshire,  127  ; 
appointed  Deputy  Governor.  127; 
flees  to  Boston,  128 ;  seized  at  Boston, 
244. 

Vandenburgh,  Derrick,  noticed,  277. 

Yandercoope,  Franz,  noticed,  277. 

Van  Cortlandt,  Stephen,  Major,  241,  243, 
245,  312,  326;  complains  of  Matthew 
Plowman's  backwardness,  258  ;  letter 
to  Cols.  Hamilton  and  Smith,  May  18, 
1689,  265. 

Van  Ekelen,  Johannes,  noticed,  30.5. 

Van  Nieuwenhuysen,  Wilhelmus,  Domi- 
nie, the  case  of,  considered,  188, 

Van  Rensselaer,  Killian,  affidavit  of, 
in  the  case  of  Leisler,  328. 

Van  Vlecq,  Isaac,  Lieut.,  noticed,  277 
294. 

Varick,  Rudolphus,  Dominie,  noticed, 
409. 

Vaughan,  William,  see  New  Hampshire, 
127. 

Veasey, ,  declaration  of,  in  reference 

to  the  seizure  of  Governor  Andros, 
244. 

Vermillen,  Johannes,  under  sentence  of 
death,  petitions  the  Queen,  333. 

Villebon,  M.,  see  Acadie,  124. 

Virginia,  the  conduct  of,  on  the  accession 
of  William  and  Mary  to  the  throne  of 
England,  13;  "Lord  and  Lady"  of, 
proclaimed,  14 ;  see  Nicholas  Spencer, 


444 


INDEX. 


Secretary,  ST  ;  state  of,  in  1689,  con- 
sidered, 43  ;  the  peaceful  condition  of, 
after  the  accession  of  William  and 
Mary,  44 ;  disputes  concerning  the 
boundary  of,  with  North  CaroUna,  46  ; 
manufactures  in,  46 ;  Sir  Edmund  An- 
dros  appointed  Governor  of,  48  ;  erec- 
tion of  a  free-school  and  college  in, 
48;  the  condition  of,  on  the  arrival 
of  Androsiu  1692,  95  ;  administration 
of,  in,  95 ;  burgesses  of,  refuse  their 
assent  to  laws,  96 ;  illicit  trade  be- 
tween Scotland  and,  97  ;  assists  New 
York  with  money,  97  ;  Nicholson  ap- 
pointed Governor  of,  109;  the  politi- 
cal state  of  the  Colony  of,  163. 

Waldron,  Richard  (see  New  Hampshire), 
127. 

Walley,  John,  conduct  of,  at  (he  attack 
on  Quebec,  57. 

Walpole,  Horace,  Auditor  of  Revenue  in 
America,  noticed,  220. 

Ward,  Sir  Edward,  opinion  on  the  char- 
ter of  Penn,  169  ;  (see  Revolution  in 
New  England),  28. 

Wedderborn,  George,  instructions  to, 
■  from  Gov.  Andros,  263. 

Wendell,  Johannes,  Capt.,  noticed,  296. 

West,  John,  seized  at  Boston,  with  Gov. 
Andros,  244. 

Westchester  County,  N.  T.  (see  Andros), 
247,  259. 

Wharton,  Lord,  noticed,  90. 

Wheeler,  Sir  Francis,  Admiral,  his  disap- 
pointment at  Boston,  135;  noticed, 
114. 

Whitehead,  Daniel  (see  Long  Island), 
805. 

Whitepaine,  Zagharia,  examination  of, 
241. 

William  of  Orange,  the  embarrassments 
of,  41  ;  (see  Prince  of  Orange);  his 
course  in  reference  to  Massachusetts 
Bay,  66,  67  ;  self-denial  of,  in  the  case 
of  Lord  Baltimore,  101  ;  his  orders  in 
reference  to  witchcraft  in  New  Eng- 
land, 111  ;  resolves  on  the  conquest 
of  Canada  in  1692,  114  ;  the  "  divided 
councils  "  of,  effect  on  the  prosperity 
of  England,    160  ;   invades  England, 


241  ;  letter  of,  to  Gov.  Nicholson,  July 
30,  1689,  noticed,  365. 

WiUiam  and  Mary,  accession  of,  to  the 
throne  of  England,  6;  proclaimed 
"  Lord  and  Lady  of  Virginia,"  14,  37 ; 
formally  proclaimed  in  Boston,  Mass., 
•26  ;  (see  administration  of  Jacob  Leis- 
ler),  241,  333 ;  proclamation  of,  in 
Boston,  373 ;  rejoicing  in  New  York 
on  the  accession  of,  374 ;  confirma- 
tion of  sheriffs,  collectors,  &c.,  in  New 
York  by,  375. 

WilUam  and  Mary  College,  the  establish- 
ment of,  96. 

Williams,  Thomas,  under  sentence  of 
death  petitions  the  Queen,  333. 

Willett,  Thomas,  Major,  of  Queens  Co. 
N.  Y.,  noticed,  247,  254 ;  (see  Long  Isl- 
and), 305. 

Willets, ,  losses  of,  in  the  Revolu- 
tion in  New  York,  382. 

Wilson,  Ebenezer,  sheriff  of  New  York, 
393. 

Winchester,  Earl  of,  member  Privy 
Council  of  William  and  Mary,  noticed, 
37. 

Winthrop,  Fitz  John,  refuses  to  com- 
mand an  expedition  against  the  Indi- 
ans, 50 ;  his  expedition  to  Lake  Cham- 
plain,  55  ;  imprisoned  by  Leisler,  56  ; 
sent  to  England  as  the  agent  of  Con- 
necticut, 138  ;  his  course  in  England, 
139. 

Winthrop,  Wayt,  Capt.,  seizes  Gov.  An- 
dros, 244  ;  refuses  to  release  him, 
266  ;  (see  the  arrest  of  Gov.  Andros, 
251). 

Witchcraft,  account  of,  in  Massachu- 
setts, 110. 

Wormley,  Secretary,  despatch  from,  to 
the  Committee  of  Council,  June  10, 
1695,  163. 

Wyllems,  Jacob,  petition  to  the  King, 
341. 

Whiting,  William,  noticed,  298. 

Youngs,  John,  Col,  (see  Revolution  in 

Boston,  248). 
York,  the  duke  of,  noticed,  187. 
Yorke,  Charles,  his  work  on  the  Law  of 

Forfeiture  noticed,  33. 


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ORIGINAL  SUBSCRIBERS  TO  THE  FUND. 


SHA'>;E 

SHARE 

1. 

James  Lenox,         N.  Y.  City. 

35. 

William  B.  Crosby,  N.  Y.  City 

2. 

Same,                           ' 

36. 

Horatio  S.  Brown, 

(( 

3. 

Same, 

37. 

John  A.  Har  denbergh. 

" 

4. 

Same, 

38. 

William  P.  Powers, 

(( 

5. 

Same,  ,                        ' 

39. 

Samuel  Marsh, 

(( 

6. 

Same, 

40. 

William  H.  H.  Moore, 

u 

7. 

Same,                           ' 

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C.  V.  S.  Roosevelt, 

" 

8. 

Same, 

42. 

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9. 

Same,                          ' 

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David  Thompson,      N. 

F.  City. 

10. 

Same,                           ' 

44. 

James  Stokes, 

" 

11. 

John  B.  Moreatt,             ' 

45. 

George  C  Peters, 

(( 

12. 

Henry  T.  Drowne,          ' 

46. 

George  T.  Trimble, 

«' 

18. 

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47. 

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u 

14. 

Thomas  W.  0.  Moore,     ' 

48. 

Thomas  Suffern, 

" 

15. 

George  Bancroft,           ' 

49. 

Richard  H.  Bowne, 

(( 

16. 

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50. 

Gkorge  H.  Purser, 

" 

17. 

Charles  H.  Ward,          ' 

51. 

John  H.  Chambers, 

u 

18. 

William  Menzies,            ' 

52. 

George  W.  Pratt, 

" 

19. 

J.  Watts  de  Petster,     ' 

53. 

Henry  A.  Hurlbut, 

u 

20. 

Edwin  Croswell,            " 

54. 

August  Belmont, 

" 

21. 

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55. 

George  R.  Jackson, 

«' 

22. 

Horace  Binney,  Phila.,  Pa. 

56. 

Cleayton  Newbold, 

(( 

23. 

Frederic  de  Peystbr,  K.  Y.  City. 

57. 

George  Bruce, 

" 

24. 

Augustus  Sohell,              " 

58. 

F.  A.  Palmer, 

(( 

25. 

Andrew  Warner,               " 

59. 

John  Ward, 

«( 

26. 

Gou VERNEUR  M .  WiLKINS,    ' ' 

60. 

Samuel  Jaudon, 

(( 

27. 

Erastus  C.  Benedict,         " 

61. 

Thomas  T.  Sturges, 

u 

28. 

James  Savage,  Boston,  Mass. 

62. 

John  Reid, 

u 

29. 

S.  Alofsen,                N.  Y.  City. 

63. 

GusTAvus  Swan, 

« 

30. 

Albert  A.  Martin,            " 

64. 

Matthew  Olarkson, 

(( 

31. 

William  B.  Campbell,       " 

65. 

William  A.  White,  Jr., 

u 

32. 

John  Alsttne,                    " 

66. 

Wm.  M.  Halstead, 

'■ 

33. 

John  Armstrong,               " 

67. 

Thomas  DeWitt, 

<■<■ 

34. 

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u 

68. 

Charles  P.  Kirkland, 

" 

450 


SUBSCRIBERS    TO    THE    FUND. 


SHARE 

SHARE 

69. 

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City. 

112. 

70. 

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" 

113. 

71. 

Cyrus  Ourtiss, 

" 

114. 

72. 

Shepherd  Knapp, 

115. 

73. 

Edward  DeWitt, 

" 

116. 

74. 

D.  B.  Faterweather, 

u 

117. 

75. 

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118. 

76. 

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" 

119. 

77. 

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" 

120. 

78. 

L.  C.  Clark, 

(i 

121. 

79. 

Thomas  Lawrence, 

" 

122. 

80. 

David  T.  Valentine, 

u 

123. 

81. 

H't  Russell  Drowne, 

" 

124. 

82. 

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" 

125. 

83. 

William  Bowne, 

" 

126. 

84. 

Henry  T.  Drowne, 

" 

127. 

85. 

Nehemiah  Knight,  BrooUyn. 

128. 

86. 

William  S.  Thorne,  N.  Y.  City. 

129. 

87. 

Alex'r  McL.  Agnew, 

" 

180. 

88. 

Robert  C.  Goodhue. 

" 

131. 

89. 

George  F.  N'esbitt, 

" 

132. 

90. 

John  E.  Wool,  Troy. 

133. 

91. 

John  P.  Treadwell,  Neio  Mil- 

134. 

ford^  Conn. 

135. 

92. 

Isaac  Fryke,            N.  Y 

City. 

136. 

93. 

Charles  J.  Martin, 

" 

137. 

94. 

Franklin  F.  Randolph. 

u 

138. 

95. 

Samuel  Coulter, 

" 

139. 

96. 

David  Van  Fostrand, 

u 

140. 

97. 

Addison  G.  Biokford, 

" 

141. 

98. 

Jonas  G.  Dudley, 

u 

142. 

99. 

Theodorus  B.  Taylor, 

" 

143. 

100. 

William  Soott, 

u 

144. 

101. 

David  Sloane, 

" 

145. 

102. 

Joseph  G.  Harbison, 

a 

146. 

103. 

Same, 

" 

147. 

104. 

Same,  ■ 

u 

148. 

105. 

Same, 

'« 

149. 

106. 

Edward  Walker, 

(( 

150. 

107. 

John  C.  Hewitt, 

" 

151. 

108. 

Charles  I.  Bushnell, 

" 

152. 

109. 

Giles  F.  Bushnell, 

» 

153. 

110. 

John  C.  Calhoun, 

" 

154. 

111. 

Thomas  J.  TiRE,  Boston^ 

Mass. 

155. 

S.  Whitney  Phcbnix,  IT.  Y.  City. 

Same,  " 

Same,  " 

Same,  " 

Same,  " 

Same,  " 

Same,  " 

Same,  " 

Same,  " 

Same,  » 

Same,  " 

Same,  " 
J.  B.  Bright,  Waltham,  Mass. 

Robert  L.  Stuart,  iV.  Y.  City. 

Same,  " 

Alexander  Stuart,  " 

Same,  " 

George  T.  Jackson,  " 

John  A.  Anderson,  " 

Charles  P.  Daly,  " 

Evert  A.  Duyckinok,  " 

Henry  C.  Carter,  " 

Andrew  J.  Smith,  " 

Mathias  Bloodgood,  " 

J.  ROMETN   BrODHEAD,       " 

Jno.  a.  McAllister,  Phila..,  Pa. 
¥ath.  W.  Hunt,  N.  Y.  City. 
Theo.  S.  Parker,  Eoholcen^  N.  J. 
William  M.  Brown,  K  Y.  City. 
And.  Brown,  Middletown,  iV.  J. 
Joseph  B.  Varnum,  J^.  Y.  City. 
Charles  B.  Cotten,  " 
Alvin  a.  Alvoed,  " 

Wm.  Henry  Arnoux,       " 
Same,  " 

Same,  " 

Same,  " 

Albert  Smith,  N'e^o  Rochelle. 
M.  C.  Morgan,         N.  Y.  City. 
S.  Howl  AND  Robbins,      " 
Francis  Bacon,  " 

A.  Spiers  Brown,  " 

George  0.  Colburn,        " 
John  Calvin  Smith,  Manlius. 


SUBSCRIBERS    TO    THE    FUND. 


451 


BHARE 

SHARE 

156. 

W.  n.  Eager,  Jr.,  K  Y.  City. 

198. 

157. 

Isaac  J.  Geeexwood,       •' 

199. 

158. 

Frederic  R.  Fowler,       " 

200. 

159. 

Anthoi^y  Det,  Jr.,           " 

201. 

160. 

Seymour  J.  Strong,         " 

202. 

161. 

Ebenezer  J.  Hyde,             ' 

203. 

162. 

William  B.  Taylor, 

204. 

163. 

Ferd.  J.  Dreee,  Fhila.,  Pa. 

205. 

164. 

Aug.  Toetdeberg,  Brooldijn. 

206. 

165. 

Charles  0.  Moreau,  K  Y.  City. 

207. 

166. 

Charles  H.  Hart,  PMla.,  Pa. 

208. 

167. 

Hexry  Piiillips,  Jr.,         " 

209. 

168. 

Francis  B.  Hayes,  Boston,  Mass. 

210. 

169. 

T.  Staefoed  Drowne,  BrooTclyn. 

211. 

170. 

Cortlandt  De  Peyster  Field, 

212. 

K  Y.  City. 

213. 

171. 

John  S.  Craig,         K  Y.  City. 

214. 

172. 

Charles  H.  Rogers,         " 

215. 

173. 

Maueioe  Htlgee,               " 

216. 

174. 

E.  A.  Benedict,                 " 

217. 

175. 

William  Eveedell,          " 

218. 

176. 

Geo.  R.  Deowne,  Boston,  Mass. 

219. 

177. 

J.  Watts  de  Peyster,  A^.    Y. 

220. 

City. 

221. 

178. 

James  B.  Andrews,  A^.  Y.  City. 

222. 

179. 

Constant  A.  Andrews,    " 

223. 

180. 

LoRiNG  Andrews,  Je.,      " 

224. 

181. 

Walter  S.  Andrews,       " 

225. 

182. 

Clarence  Andrews,         " 

226. 

183. 

William  L.  Andrews,      " 

227. 

184. 

Same,                            '• 

228. 

185. 

John  Aemsteong,             " 

229. 

186. 

Paul  K.  Weizel,  B'JcIyn,  K  Y. 

280. 

187. 

John  F.  McCoy,       K  Y.  City. 

231. 

188. 

Joseph  B.  Hoyt,               " 

232. 

189. 

James  Benedict,               " 

233. 

190. 

J.  Nelson  Tappan             " 

234. 

191. 

Feancis  Wigand,              " 

235. 

192. 

C.  H.  ISHAM, 

193. 

D.  B.  Fayeeweatheb,      " 

194. 

John  A.  Hardenbergh,    " 

236. 

195. 

J.  W.  Weidmeyer,            " 

196. 

Edwin  Faxon,                  " 

287. 

197. 

F.  a.  Gale,                       « 

238. 

John  Caswell,         A^.  Y.  City. 
William  C.  Dornin,         " 
William  P.  Cooledge,     " 
John  R.  Ford, 
Israel  Corse,  " 

Daniel  Morison,  " 

John  Bridge,  " 

Wilson  G.  Hunt,  " 

Charles  H.  Smith,  " 

John  P.  Crosby,  " 

Erastus  Corning,  Albany. 

Same,  " 

.James  B.  Colgate,  A'.  Y.  City. 
Samuel  Marsh,  " 

Edwin  Parsons,  " 

Robert  J.  Hubbard,  " 
J.  Watts  de  Peyster,  " 
James  A.  Raynoe,  " 

Robeet  j.  Livingston,  " 
John  C.  Barron,  " 

Henry  K.  Brewer,  " 

John  A.  Nexsen,  " 

Marshall  O.  Roberts,  " 
William  ?f.  Blakeman,  " 
Herman  C.  Adams,  '• 

Thomas  B.  Gunning,  " 
Abraham  Bogardfs,  " 
John  E.  Lauer,  " 

E.  M.  Ceawfoed,  " 

James  C.  Holden,  " 

Samuel  Colgate,  " 

William  B.  Ross,  " 

William  K.  Hinman,  " 
John  W.  Quincy,  " 

James  M.  Bruce,  " 

Miss  Annie  Moreau,  " 
Lewis  Hallock,  " 

The  Library  of  the  City  of 

Amsterdam,         Amsterdam.^ 

Xetherla7uls. 

Rs.   Anna  Boynton,    N.   Y. 

City. 
RuFus  D.  Case,       N.  Y.  City. 
Cyrus  Butler,  " 


452 


SUBSCRIBERS    TO   THE    FUND. 


239.  EiCHARD  S.  Field,  Princeton, 

N.J. 

240.  A.   O.  Zabbiskie,  Jersey  City, 

N.J. 

241.  Michael  Lienatj,  Jersey  City, 

N.  J. 

242.  William  A.  Whitehead,  .iVew- 

avTc,  N.  J. 

243.  SiMEOx  Deafer,  N.  Y.  City. 

244.  Freeman  M.  Josselyn,  Boston, 

Mass. 

245.  Theodore  W.  Riley,  N.  Y.  City. 

246.  John  Boyd,  Jr.,  " 

247.  George  K.  Sistare,  " 

248.  J.  Warren  S.  Dey,  " 

249.  William  II.  Bridgman,   " 

250.  Anson  Phelps  Stokes,     " 

251.  William  0.  Martin,         " 

252.  A.  Eobertson  Walsh,     " 

253.  Joseph  A.  Sprague,         " 

254.  Charles  A.  Peabody,      " 

255.  William  H.  Morbell,      " 

256.  John  V.  L.  Pruyn,  Albany, N.  Y. 

257.  Frederick  James  de  Peyster, 

K  Y.  City. 

258.  William  H.  Macy,  N.  Y.  City. 

259.  Thomas  Paton,  " 

260.  David  Stewart,  " 

261.  David  Stewart,  Jr.,         " 

262.  John  E.  Williams,  " 

263.  John  P.  Townsend,  " 

264.  William  H.  Morrell,       " 

265.  Homer  Morgan,  " 

266.  John  Armstrong,  " 

267.  Same,  " 

268.  Same,  " 

269.  Same,  " 

270.  N.  NoRRis  Halstead,   Harri- 

son, Hudson  Co.,  N.  J. 

271.  Wm.  0.  Tallmadge,  iV:  Y.  City. 

272.  Howard  Crosby,  " 

273.  Mrs.  Mary  E.  Brooks,     " 

274.  Edward  Hodges,  " 

275.  Robert  W.  Rodman,        " 


277. 
278. 
279. 
280. 
281. 
282. 
283. 
284. 
285. 
286. 
287. 
288. 
289. 
290. 
291. 
292. 
293. 
294. 
295. 
296. 
297. 
298. 
299. 
300. 
301. 
302. 
303. 
304. 
305. 
306. 
307. 


810. 
311. 
312. 
313. 
314. 
315. 
316. 
317. 
318. 
319. 


John  L.  Riker,         N.  Y.  City. 
Walter  R.  T.  Jones,       " 
Claudius  L.  Monell,        " 
Byam  K.  Stevens,  Jr.,    " 
Francis  Many,  " 

Henry  M.  Tabeb,  " 

T,  M.  Peters,  " 

John  B.  Cornell,  " 

S.  Alofsen,  " 

Same,  " 

Robert  B.  Minturn,  Jr.,  " 
George  Tugnot,  " 

RuFus  S.  Bergen,  Oreen  Point. 
Benj'n  W.  Bonney,  N.  Y.  City. 
Benj'n  W.  Bonney,  Jr.,  " 
John  S.  H.  Fogg,  Boston,  Mass. 
John  H.  Wright,  " 

William  Wood,  N.  Y.  City. 
F.  G.  Van  Woert,  " 

Alex'r  T.  Stewart,  " 
John  B.  Cronin,  " 

Georgf  D.  Morgan,  " 
Homer  Tilton,  " 

Samuel  Frost,  " 

Same,  " 

James  H.  Pinkney,  " 

William  T.  Pinkney,  " 
Charles  H.  Phillips,  " 
James  Eager,  " 

William  Underhill,  " 
John  D.  Clute,  •  " 

Abraham  B.  Embury,  " 
Charles  L.  Richards,  " 
William  Beard,  " 

James  H.  Welles,  " 

John  Gallier,  " 

Charles  Le  Boutillieb,  " 
Thomas  Le  Boutillier,  " 
John  G.  Lambebson,  " 
Russell  C.  Root,  " 

Clarkson  Crolius,  " 

William  Murphy,  Chappaqua. 
Daniel  T.  Willets,  N.  Y.  City. 
Charles  Gould,  " 


SUBSCRIBERS    TO    THE    FUND. 


453 


327. 


330. 
331. 
332. 


SHARK 

320.  John  B.  Bartlett,  iV.  Y.  City. 

321.  Mathias  Clark,  '• 

322.  Robert  M.  Roberts,         " 

323.  Jas.  Hasbrouck  Sahler,  " 

324.  Frederic  de  Peyster,       " 

325.  Same,  " 

326.  Same,  " 
John  J.  Latting,  *' 
David  Buffum,  " 
F.  H.  Parker, 
George  W.  Thompson,  " 
Thomas  F.  Youngs,  " 
Oliver  G.  Barton,  '• 

333.  Abram  E.  O0TTEE,  Gharlestoic7i, 

Mass. 

334.  William  E.  Lewis,  K  Y.  City. 

335.  John  H.  Johnston  " 

336.  William  B.  Cleeke,        " 
33T.  John  0.  Connor,  " 

338.  Henry  T.  Morgan,  " 

339.  Abeam  A.  Leggett,  " 
James  Davett,  " 
Erastus  S.  Brown,  " 
AsHER  Taylor,  " 

343.  Edwaed  Bill, 

344.  William   H.   Tuthill, 

Cedar  Co..,  Iowa. 
Henry  S.  Terbell,  N.  Y.  City. 
George  W.  Abbe,  '' 

Sidney  Mason,  " 

Charles  Shields,  " 

George  B.  Dorr,  " 

Gardiner  Pike,  " 

John  0.  Beatty,  " 

LoRA  B.  Bacon,  " 

Charles  H.  Ludington,  " 
James  Brown,  " 


340. 
341. 
342. 


345. 
346. 
347. 
348. 
349. 
350. 
351. 
352. 
353. 
354. 


Tipton^ 


355.  Charles  O'Conoe,  " 

356.  Charles  B.  Collins,        " 

357.  John  H.  Wright,  Boston^  Mass. 

358.  Wm.  S.  Constant,    N.  Y.  City. 

359.  Geo.  W.  Wales,  Boston,  Mass. 

360.  John  L.  Dean,         K  Y.  City. 

361.  T.  Matlaok  Chbesman,    " 


SHARE 

362.  Maximilian  Rader,  N.  Y.  City. 

363.  J.  Hobart  Herrick,  " 

364.  Louis  P.  Griffith,  " 

365.  Barrow  Benrimo,  " 

366.  Edward  F.  DeLanoey,  " 

367.  Samuel  L.  Breese,  " 

368.  D.  Henry  Haight,  " 

369.  John  Adriance,  " 

370.  Same,  " 

371.  Joseph  W.  Alsop,  " 

372.  Henry  Chauncey,  " 

373.  Frederick  Chauncey,  " 

374.  William  IIabirshaw,  " 

375.  Henry  A.  Heiser,  " 

376.  William  H.  Jackson,  " 

377.  Elijah  T.  Brown,  " 

378.  Henry  K.  Bogert,  " 

379.  Addison  Bkown,  " 

380.  Ernest  Fiedler,  " 

381.  J.  Watts  de  Peyster,  " 

382.  William  Remsen,  " 

383.  Walter  M.  Underbill,    " 

384.  Samuel  W.  Francis,  " 

385.  George  Livebmoee,  Cambridge.,. 

Mass, 

386.  Same,  " 

387.  Same,  " 

388.  Same,  " 
889.  John  F.  Gray,          N.  Y.  City. 

390.  Henry  G.  Griffen,  " 

391.  Thomas  S.  Berry,  "^ 

392.  Calvin  Durand,  "• 

393.  Robert  B.  Minturn,  "• 

394.  F.  A.  P.  Barnard,  "• 

395.  William  Bryce,  " 

396.  -James  Beyce,  " 

397.  Augustus  Belknap,  " 

398.  Andrew  Wilson,  " 

399.  William  J.  Van  Duser,  '• 

400.  John  C.  Havemeyer,  ** 

401.  John  T.  Ag^ew,  •' 

402.  Same,  " 

403.  Charles  E.  Beebe,  " 

404.  Nathanlel  W.  Chateb,  " 


454 


SUBSCRIBERS    TO    THE    FUND. 


SHARE 

SHARE 

405. 

George  C.  Collins,  K  Y.  Citi/. 

447. 

William  B.  Taylor,  Jr.,  iV".  Y. 

406. 

William  II.  Goodwin,     " 

City. 

407. 

OUA.HLES  G.   IIaEMER,           " 

448. 

William  V.  Brady, 

408. 

William  Hegeman,          " 

449. 

Oliver  Hoyt,                    " 

409. 

Peteh  V.  King,                 " 

450. 

Charles  W.  Leooije,        " 

410. 

Geoege  W.  Lane,             '' 

451. 

JohnH.  Swift,                 " 

411. 

Louis  F.  Theeasson,         " 

452. 

Hugh  N.  Oamp, 

412. 

IIeney  F.  Sewall,           " 

453. 

W.  WooLSEY  Wright,      " 

413. 

Miss  Elizabeto  Claekson  Jay, 

454. 

Jed  Frye,                         " 

.V.  1'.  City. 

455. 

Henry  Owen,                    " 

414. 

William  E.  Dodge,           " 

456. 

William  A.  Young,         " 

415. 

William  E.  Dodge,  Je.,  " 

457. 

John  Buckley,  Jr.,          " 

416. 

Geokge  W.  Robins,          " 

458. 

D.  Randolph  Martin,     " 

417. 

John  D.  Locke,                 " 

459. 

Samuel  L.  M.  Barlow,    " 

418. 

John  McKesson,               " 

460. 

E.  W.  Ryeeson, 

419. 

EicHAED  M.  Hoe,             " 

461. 

Samuel  Shethar,             " 

420. 

Robert  IIoe,                      " 

462. 

Geo.  Beinley,  Hartford,  Conn. 

421. 

Petek  S.  Hoe, 

463. 

Augustus  F.  Smith,  iV.  F.  City. 

.422. 

Augustus  W.  Payne,       " 

464. 

William  H.  Huelbut,     " 

423. 

William  Oothout,          " 

465. 

Henry  A.  Hurlbut,         " 

424. 

Edwaed  Oothout,            " 

466. 

Mes.  Sophie  H.  Scott,     " 

425. 

Edwaed  F.  Hopkins,        " 

467. 

The   N.  Y.    Society  Library, 

426. 

David  E.  Wheelee,         " 

New  York  City. 

.427. 

John  H.  Sprague,            " 

468. 

Thomas  K.  Marcy,  BrooMyn. 

428. 

Theodoee  Van  Norden,-' 

469. 

Jas.  Y.  Smith,  Providence.,  R.  I. 

429. 

George  de  Heart  Gillespie, 

470. 

Wm.  B.  Bolles,  Astoria,  N.  Y. 

^.  Y.  City. 

471. 

Gouv.    Morris   Wilkins,    New 

430. 

BexYjamin  G.  Aektold,      " 

Yorl  City. 

431. 

Coeidon  a.  x\LVOED,         " 

472. 

James  T.  Fields,  Boston,  Mass. 

432. 

Same,                            " 

473. 

Horace  P.  Biddle,  Logansport, 

433. 

Same, 

Indiana. 

434. 

Same,                            " 

474. 

A.  L.  Roache,  Indiana2)olis,  In- 

435. 

J.  Otis  Ward,                   " 

diana. 

436. 

James  Lenox,                   " 

475 

Miss  Eliza  S.  Quinoy,  Quincy, 

437. 

Same,                            " 

Mass. 

438 

Jabez  E.  Munsell,           " 

476 

Alfred  Brookes,    N.  Y.  City. 

439 

Arnold  0.  Hawes,          " 

477 

Henry  Youngs,  Jr.,         " 

440 

Jacob  W.  Feeter,            " 

478 

Jeremiah  Loder,              " 

441 

Daniel  Spring,                 " 

479 

Thomas  11.  Aemsteong,  " 

442 

John  C.  Geeen,                " 

480 

William  C.  Bryant,        " 

443 

David  L.  Holden,            " 

481 

Matthew  P.  Read,          " 

444 

Joseph  W.  Patterson,    " 

482 

Manning  M.    Knapp,   EacTcen- 

445 

Gordon  W.  Burnham,     " 

sacJc,  N.  J. 

446 

Samuel  Wilde,. Je.,          " 

483 

.  Lockwood  L.  Doty,  Albany. 

SUBSCRIBERS    TO    THE    FUND. 


455 


SHARl 

484. 

485. 
486. 
487. 
488. 
489. 
490. 
491. 


493. 
494. 
495. 
496. 
497. 
498. 
499. 
500. 
501. 
502. 
503. 
504. 
505. 

506. 
507. 
508. 
509. 
510. 
511. 
512. 
513. 
514. 
515. 
516. 
517. 
518. 
519. 
520. 
521. 
522. 
523. 


Walter  L.  Newberry,  Chicago. 

Illinois. 

Hamilton  Fish,  New  Yorh  City. 

Wm.  B.  Towne,    Boston,  Mass. 

Same,  " 

Same,  " 

Same,  " 

Sidney  W.  Dibble,  K.  Y.  City. 

Charles    J.    Seymour,    Bing- 

hamton,  N.  Y. 
D.  A.  MoKnight,   Plttshurgh., 

Penn.  ' 

Chas.  H.  Hoxjsman,  N.  Y.  City. 
James  H.  Chichester,     " 
"William  W.  Greene,       " 
Francis  F.  Dorr,  " 

Charles  W.  Whitney,  " 
Egbert  D.  Hart,  " 

George  H.  Mathews,  " 
Thomas  Addis  Emmet,  " 
Andrew  J.  Smith,  *' 

William  D.  Maxwell,  " 
Charles  A.  Maoy,  Jr.,  " 
Thomas  W.  Field,  '' 

Charles     Gorham      Barney, 

Richmond.^  Va. 
Benj.  B.  Atterbury,  If.  Y.  City. 

PaCHARD  W.   EOCHE,  " 

Thomas  II,  Morrell,  " 
Smith  Barker,  " 

EvERARDiis  B.  Warner,  " 
Augustus  T.  Francis,  " 
Wm.  a.  Stringerland,  " 
Eiley  a.  Brick,  " 

Same,  " 

Walter  M.  Smith,  " 

Henry  Elsworth,  " 

John  Hecker,  " 

Warren  Ward,  " 

Charles  G.  Judson,         " 
J.  Meredith  Eead,  Jr.,  Albany. 
John  H.  Van  Antwerp,     " 
Wm.  M.  Van  Wagenen,      " 
Wm.  T.  Eyebson,     K  Y.  City. 


SHARE 

524.  Edwin  Hoyt, 

525. 

526. 

527. 
528. 
529. 
530. 
581. 
532. 
533. 
534. 


K  Y.  City. 

John  Van  Nest,  '' 
Clinton  Gilbert,  " 

J.  Carson  Brevoort,  BrooMyn. 

Same,  " 

Isaac  D.  Eussell,  iV.  Y.  City. 

Henry  Oothout,  " 

Alexander  P.  Irvin,  " 

Beriah  Palmer,  " 

Egbert  Scbell,  " 
Alfred  T.  Ackert,  Rhinebech. 

535.  John  H.  Watson,    N.  Y.  City. 

536.  Abraham  Baldwin,  " 

537.  Ezra  A.  Hayt,  " 

538.  William  L.  Lambert,  " 

539.  Charles  S.  Smith,  '' 

540.  Charles  A.  Macy,  " 

541.  Samuel  Eaynor,  " 

542.  Lucius  Tuckerman,  " 

543.  William  Betts,  " 

544.  William  K.  Strong,  " 

545.  John  D.  Jones,  " 

546.  Same,  " 

547.  Thomas  C.  Doremus,  " 

548.  EuDOLPH    A.    Witthaus,    Jr., 

A^.  Y.  City. 

549.  Fred'k  W.  Macy,     N.  Y.  City. 

550.  Joseph  N.  Ireland,  " 

551.  William  Montross,  " 

552.  Samuel  E.  Mabbatt,  " 

553.  Jacob  S.  Wetmore,  " 

554.  Marvelle  W.  Cooper,  " 

555.  Abraham  M.  Cozzens,  " 

556.  Jacob  Van  Wagenen,  " 

557.  John  H.  Eiker,  « 

558.  Wm.  Alexander  Smith,  " 

559.  George  Dixon,  Jr.,  " 

560.  Hamilton  Odell,  " 

561.  Charles  B.  Eiohardson,  " 

562.  Horatio  Nichols,  " 

563.  George  T.  Hall,  " 

564.  Henry  A.  Burr,  " 

565.  Franklin  H.  Delano,  " 

566.  James  M.  Deuel,  " 


456 


SUBSCRIBERS    TO    THE    FUND. 


573. 
574. 
575. 
576. 
577. 
578. 
579. 
580. 
581. 


SHARE 

567.  Richard  Irvin,  Jr.,  K  Y.  Glty. 

568.  Dudley  B.  Fuller, 

569.  Henry  A.  Smythk, 

570.  JosiAH  S.  Leverett, 

571.  John  S.  Davenport, 

572.  Bronson  Peok, 
William  A.  Allen, 
William  Dowd, 
David  L.  Baker, 
John  G.  Shea, 

Same, 
David  D.  Field, 
William  H.  Appleton, 
Samuel  J.  Tilden, 

Same, 

582.  Timothy  Gr.  Churchill, 

583.  Parker  Handy, 

584.  Nathaniel  Hayden, 

585.  John  G.  Holbrooke, 

586.  Robert  H  .  MoCurdy, 

587.  Rush  0.  Hawkins, 

588.  L.  M.  Ferris,  Jr., 

589.  Theo.  Roosevelt, 
J.  Butler  Wright, 
George  Palen, 
George  Griswold, 
O.  D.  MUNN, 
Frank  Moore, 
William  H,  Lee, 

Same, 
Henry  E.  Clark, 

598.  Jackson  S.  Sohultz, 

599.  John    Carter    Brown, 

idence,  B.  I. 

John  Carter  Brown,  2d,  Prov- 
idence, R.  L 

Peleg  Hall,  N.  T.  City. 


590. 
591. 
592. 
593. 
594. 
595. 
596. 
597. 


600. 


601. 


Prov- 


602.  Charles  L.  Anthony,      " 

603.  George  W.  Hall,  " 

604.  J.  T.  Leavitt,  " 

605.  Joseph  Howland,  Albany. 

606.  John  W.  Munro,      N.  Y.  City. 

607.  Parker  Handy,  " 

608.  Same,  " 


609.  Parker  Handy,       N.  Y.  City. 

610.  George  Griswold,  " 

611.  Willard  Parker,  " 

612.  Alex'r  W.  Bradford,      " 
618.  Benjamin  L.  Benson,       " 

614.  Edward  Schell,  '• 

615.  A.  B.  Kellogg,  " 

616.  Joseph  O.  Brown,  '• 

617.  E.  B.  Oakley,  « 

618.  Nathaniel  Jarvis,  Jr.,    " 

619.  David  S.  Dunoomb,  " 

620.  Augustus  K.  Gardner,    '" 

621.  L.  Bayard  Smith,  " 

622.  Louis  de  V.  Wilder,        " 

623.  William  E.  Bird,  " 

624.  Franklin  B.  Hough,  Lowville. 

625.  Thomas  P.  Rowe,     N.  Y.  City. 

626.  Samuel  Osgood, 

627.  Charles  A.  Meigs, 

628.  Edward  H.  Purdy, 

629.  Joseph  F.  Joy, 
680.  Hezekiaii  Khstg, 

631.  Horace  W.  Fuller, 

632.  William  H.  Post, 

633.  Edward  D.  Butler, 
684.  Henry  B.  Dawson,  Morrisania. 

635.  Almon  W.  Griswold,  K  Y.  City. 

636.  S.  TowNSEND  Cannon.     " 

637.  Theodore  M.  Barnes,      " 
688.  Joel  Munsell,  Albany. 

639.  Same, 

640.  Thomas  A.  Bishop,  N.  Y.  City. 

641.  Same,  " 

642.  Nicholas  F.  Palmer,       " 

643.  J.  L.  Leonard,  Loioville. 

644.  David  C.  Halstead,  N.  Y.  City. 

645.  Thomas  Morton,  " 

646.  J.  F.  Sheafe,  " 

647.  Henry  A.  Bostwiok,        " 

648.  Hiram  D.  Dater,  " 

649.  George  H.  Williams,      " 

650.  O.  W.  Reynolds,  " 

651.  SiLVANus  J.  Maoy,  " 

652.  Henry  J.  Soudder,  " 


SUBSCRIBERS    TO    THE    FUND. 


457 


SHARE 

653.  N.  W.  Stutvesant  Oatlin,  N. 

r.  City. 

654.  H.  Tract  Arnold,  If.  Y.  City. 

655.  Benjamin  R.  Winthrop,  " 

656.  Same,  " 

657.  Benj.  R.  Winthrop,  Jr.,  " 

658.  Egerton  L.  Winthrop,  iV.    Y. 

City. 

659.  Franklin  Edson,  Albany. 

660.  Robert  0.  Melvain,  K  Y.  City. 

661.  Archibald  Russell,         " 

662.  William     I.    Paulding,     Gold 

Spring. 

663.  John  Romeyn  Brodhead,  A^.  Y. 

City. 

664.  John  L.  Kennin,      JSf.  Y.  City. 

665.  James  Stokes,  Jr.,  " 

666.  John  A.  Russell,  " 

667.  E.  M.  Wright,  " 

668.  EvERARDus  Warner,        " 

669.  Everardus  B.  Warner,   " 

670.  John  C.  Hewitt,  " 

671.  Peter  Stryker,  Phila.,  Pa. 

672.  Wilson  M.  Powell,  JSf.  Y.  City. 

673.  Samuel  H.  Brown,  " 

674.  Ellsworth  Eliot.  " 

675.  John  T.  Klots,  " 

676.  Charles  H.  Dummer,       " 

677.  Henry  D.  Bulkley,  " 

678.  J. K.Hamilton WiLLOOx," 

679.  Appleton  Sturgis,  " 

680.  William  T.  Salter,  " 

681.  William  Rockwell,         " 

682.  E.  H.  Janes,  " 

683.  Thomas  B.  Newbt,  " 

684.  Louis  de  V.  Wilder,        " 

685.  Same,  " 

686.  Samuel  Coulter,  " 

687.  Ralph  Clark,  " 

688.  Thomas  F.  De  Voe,  " 

689.  John  Groshon,  " 

690.  S.  L.  Boardman,  Augusta,  Me. 

691.  Charles  J.  Folsom,  N.  Y.  City. 

692.  George  Folsom,  " 


SHARE 

693.  Everardus  Warner,  A^.  F.  Ciiy. 

694.  George  C.  Eyland,  " 

695.  C.  F.  Hardon,  " 

696.  F.  Wiley,  " 

697.  Alexander  Wiley,  " 

698.  John  W.  Scott,  Astoria. 

699.  Edward  Anthony,  If.  Y.  City. 

700.  Ohaunoey  p.  Smith,  Wolcoti. 

701.  H'y  Camerden,  Jr.,  If.  F.  City. 

702.  George  Bancroft,  " 

703.  Abraham  R.  Weaver,     " 

704.  James  W.  Purdt,  " 

705.  CuAS.  CoNGDON,  B'Hyn,  K  Y. 

706.  Long  Island  Historical  Soci- 

ety, BvooTdyn,  N.  Y. 

707.  Brooklyn  Mercantile  Library 

Association,  BrooMyn,  If.  Y. 

708.  New  Bedford  Free  Library, 

Ifew  Bedford,  Mass. 

709.  John  David  Wolfe,  A^.  F.  City. 

710.  Miss  C.  L.  Wolfe,  " 

711.  George  W.  Cook,  " 

712.  James  L.  Woodward,       " 

713.  William     Frederick     Poole, 

Boston,  Mass. 

714.  Benjamin  H.  Field,  If.  Y.  City. 

715.  CORTLANDT  De  PeYSTEU   FiELD, 

A^.  F.  City. 

716.  John  Fitch,  A'.  F.  City. 

717.  Same, 

718.  F.  Augustus  Wood,  •' 

719.  John   H.  Dillingham,    Haver- 

ford  College,  Pa. 

720.  F.  Augustus  Wood,  If.  Y.  City. 

721.  Charles  A.  Peabody,      " 

722.  Edwin  F.  Corey,  Jr.,       " 

723.  John  G.  Lamberson,         " 

724.  Same,  " 

725.  John  E.  Parsons,  " 

726.  Gratz  Nathan,  " 

727.  B.  F.  De  Costa,  " 

728.  Henry  0.  Potter,  " 

729.  Henry  Nicoll,  '' 

730.  George  E.  Moore,  " 


45^ 


SUBSCRIBERS    TO    THE    FUND. 


SHARE 

SHARE 

Y31. 

JoHxX  F.  Trow, 

m  Y.  City. 

741. 

George  H. 

Moore, 

K  Y.  City 

732. 

Same, 

" 

742. 

Same, 

" 

783. 

Same, 

" 

743. 

Same, 

(( 

734. 

Same, 

" 

744. 

Same, 

Cl 

735. 

Same, 

(( 

745. 

Same, 

" 

736. 

Same, 

u 

746. 

Same, 

(( 

737. 

Same, 

" 

747. 

Same, 

" 

738. 

Same, 

u 

748. 

Same, 

(( 

739. 

Same, 

" 

749. 

Same, 

ic 

740. 

Same, 

" 

750. 

Same, 

C( 

SHAREHOLDERS  BY  TRANSFERS  TO  DECEMBER,  1868. 


SHARE  SHAKE 

150.  George  H.  Peeke,  Jersey  Gity^  358. 

N.  J.  670. 

167.  John  H.  Thompson,  New  York  719. 

City. 


Robert  S.  Miller,  N.  Y.  City. 
Wm.  p.  Prentice,  " 

Haverford  College  Library, 
HaverfoiYl  College,  Pa.